Samu to get Aust call-up

Crusaders loose forward Pete Samu is in line to make his Wallabies debut against Ireland next month.

It’s understood Samu, who yesterday 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 tonight. Samu could then 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 a dynamic ball carrier who stands at 1.85m tall and weighs 102kg.

"I am thrilled by the challenge of joining the Brumbies and am looking forward to taking to the field for the club," Samu said.

"I’d like to thank the Crusaders for giving me a chance at this level and wish them all the best for the future."

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.