Samu set to make debut for Wallabies
Crusaders loose forward Pete Samu is in line to make his Wallabies debut against Ireland next month.
It’s understood Samu, who has signed with the Brumbies for the next two Super Rugby seasons, has been released by New Zealand Rugby, and is therefore available to Wallabies coach Michael Cheika, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.
If confirmed, his release was rapid in comparison with England-bound Hurricanes loose forward Brad Shields, who NZR initially refused to release while he was still contracted.
It’s no secret Cheika is keen on the Melbourne-born player, and he’s expected to name him in his first 2018 squad on tonight. Samu would then be in line to make his debut in less than a fortnight.
The 26-year-old, who is in his third season with the Crusaders, can play all three loose forward positions, and is dynamic ball carrier who stands at
1.85m tall and weighs 102kg.
‘‘I am thrilled by the challenge of joining the Brumbies and am a looking forward to taking to the field for the club,’’ Samu said. ‘‘The Brumbies are well-renowned throughout Super Rugby for being a successful club, and for having a fantastic playing culture. I am excited to get to Canberra, settle in and get out onto the field.
‘‘I’d to thank the Crusaders for giving me a chance at this level and wish them all the best for the future.’’ like
Samu originally played for Randwick in Sydney, before switching to Tasman in 2014 and being spotted by Crusaders scouts.
He joined the 2015 team as injury cover late in the piece, before earning a fulltime contract the following year.
The 26-year-old has had consistent game-time the past two seasons, partly due to injuries to All Blacks captain Kieran Read, and started last week’s win against the Hurricanes in Christchurch at No 8.
However, he left the match with concussion and is going through the head injury assessment protocol as the defending champions prepare for Saturday night’s fixture against the Chiefs in Hamilton.
‘‘We are delighted that Peter Samu has agreed to join the Brumbies for the 2019 Super Rugby season,’’ Brumbies coach Dan McKellar said.
‘‘Peter is a powerful backrower with good speed and a skill-set that suits how we want to play at the Brumbies. He comes from a highly successful programme and has enjoyed success at both Mitre 10 Cup and Super Rugby level.
‘‘Having been involved in trophy-winning sides in both those competitions, he brings a winning mind-set to the group and we look forward to his arrival.’’