The Western Force have pulled off a major signing with Rebels captain Michael Wells signing on a two-year deal.
Wells made his Super Rugby debut for the Brumbies in 2016, before heading south after a stint with the Waratahs.
The backrower flourished at the Rebels, winning the Weary Dunlop Award in 2021 to go with a maiden call-up to Wallabies camp.
After a strong 2022 campaign, Wells admits the prospect of reuniting with former Norths and impending Force boss Simon Cron was a major factor in making the move.
“I’m particularity looking forward to linking back up with Simon Cron who I have spent a bit of time with at Norths and the Waratahs,” Wells said in a statement.
“I’ve kept in contact with Cron, so when he told me he was talking to the Force, my ears pricked up a bit.
“He is the best coach I have had. He is someone who has helped me develop a lot in rugby and constantly gets the best out of me. As a player, to be able to be coached by him again is a big attraction.
“In terms of rugby, what we have seen since the Force re-joined Super Rugby was the passion that is in Perth, for the Force and rugby in general.”
General Manager of Rugby Matt Hodgson was delighted with the new acquisition, believing he is the perfect fit for the young squad.
“Wells is a natural leader both on and off the field, which has been evident throughout his career,” Hodgson added.
“He is a strong player who will add almost 100 Super Rugby games of experience to our squad when he joins us at the end of the year. His reputation as a hard worker and quality character makes him exactly the kind of player we need at the Force.
“His tenacity and abrasive ball-running skills will fit perfectly with how we are looking to build the team.”
