Abel extends Brumbies deal

Tue, Aug 8, 2017, 1:21 AM
Sam Phillips
by Sam Phillips
Robbie Abel has re-signed with the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images
Robbie Abel has re-signed with the Brumbies. Photo: Getty Images

Robbie Abel has been rewarded for a strong Super Rugby season, extending his stay in Canberra until the end of 2019.

Abel proved he is up to Super Rugby standard in 2017 - a season in which first choice hooker Josh Mann-Rae spent a large chunk of time on the sidelines.

A local product out of renowned nursery St Edmund's College, Abel's set piece play is outstanding and he shows a thirst for physicality around the park in both his carries and defensive work.

He impressed now-former coach Stephen Larkham in that stretch of starts and new coach Dan McKellar was complimentary in his comments.

"Robbie has shown in 2017 that he is up to Super Rugby standard week in and week out,” McKellar said.

"He brings a different skill-set and his set-piece is very good.Abel has spent time abroad but has always called Canberra home. Photo: Getty Images"His point of difference is probably his ability to offload and use the ball well.

"Robbie has come through our local pathway system and the challenge for him now, as an individual, is to kick-on.”

Abel said he would look to build on this season with a bigger and better 2018.

“It’s fantastic to be able to say that I will be a Brumby for at least the next two seasons,” he said.

“Having attended a Canberra school from a young age, the Brumbies have always been a big part of my life from watching them, and aspiring to play for the club, as a young schoolboy to making my debut against the Cheetahs last season.

“We are very lucky at the club to have a wealth of talented players and we all get along very well together. I work very closely with Bongo [Josh Mann-Rea] and I feel we complement each other.

“I am proud to represent my local club and I have enjoyed this season, being a part of the matchday squad on a regular basis. I am aiming to further my career and help the Brumbies and the ACT Rugby community be successful.”

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