Qantas Wallabies and NSW Waratahs prop Paddy Ryan has signed a one-year contract with the defending champions, which will take him through to the end of the 2016 Asteron Life Super Rugby Competition.
The 26-year-old made his Wallabies debut in 2012 and has played for Australia on three occasions, his latest Test cap coming in Brisbane during Australia’s series against France last year.
Ryan, who helped the Waratahs to their maiden Super Rugby title in 2014, is keen to add to his achievements in Australian Rugby thus far.
“I wanted to stay in Australia to be a better Rugby player,” Ryan said.
“Pushing yourself in one of the toughest competitions in the world is important for my development and I still feel I have a lot more I can improve on and achieve here in Australia in a high performance environment.”
With competition for a spot in the 2015 Rugby World Cup squad heating up, Ryan said that future selection in the national team played a huge role in his decision to re-sign with the NSW Waratahs.
“Playing for the Wallabies is the ultimate for any young Rugby player, and I have been fortunate enough to play in a few tests. It was a huge honour for myself and my family. The opportunity to work hard and aspire to play more Tests was a huge factor in my decision.”
“With the current props around, I know we will all be pushing one another to wear the gold jersey at the 2015 Rugby World Cup. This type of environment will only make us better Rugby players.”
The talented prop made his Super Rugby debut in 2011 against the Chiefs and has been a great servant of Australian Rugby, notching up over 50 provincial caps. Ryan also played in the inaugural Buildcorp National Rugby Championship last year.
Paddy Ryan – Wallaby No. 866
Height: 189cm
Weight: 117kg
Born: 09/08/1988
Province: NSW Waratahs
Test caps: 3
Test debut: 2012 v France, Stade de France
