Fainga'a brothers set to be reunited in 2017

Thu, Nov 3, 2016, 1:03 AM
AAP
by AAP
Anthony Fainga'a for the Brumbies in 2008 heads for the try line. Photo: Getty Images
Anthony Fainga'a for the Brumbies in 2008 heads for the try line. Photo: Getty Images

The Fainga’a twins will reunite in 2017, with former Reds centre Anthony joining twin brother Saia in the nation’s capital on a one-year deal.

Currently playing with the Kintetsu Liners in Japan, Anthony will return to Canberra late next year, where he will look to add to his 93 Super Rugby caps.

Anthony is one of the three brothers who play in the Super Rugby Competition, with his younger brother Colby playing for the Melbourne Rebels.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said he the experience of both Fainga’a’s was critical within the dynamic of the young Brumbies squad.

“Having the twins returning will bolster our depth in key positions,” Larkham said.

“Anthony has long been one of the best defensive centres in Super Rugby, which will be a huge boost for our backline.

“He has the ability to kick goals and play in either centre position - Alongside Saia, the twins bring a formidable amount of experience to next year’s squad." - Larkham

“They have great connections with the Queanbeyan and Canberra communities and I think fans will be happy to see them back in Brumbies colours next season.”

Born in Queanbeyan and a student of famed Rugby nursery St Edmunds College, Anthony played a key role in Australia’s 2006 U19 World Championship-winning side, later nominated for the IRB U19 Player of the Year, before his Super Rugby debut for the Brumbies in 2007.

Fainga'a made his Test debut for Australia against the All Blacks in Melbourne in 2010, and was then selected alongside Saia in the Wallabies squad for the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Saia and Anthony Faingaa were the third set of twins to represent Australia in a Test match, following on from Stewart and Jim Boyce and Mark and Glen Ella becoming the 40th set of brothers to appear for the Wallabies.

Off the field, the Fainga'a brothers commit countless hours as ambassadors for the National Breast Cancer Foundation hosting an annual gala fundraising ball as part of their ambassador role.

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