The Melbourne Rebels are continuing to lock down their core, signing outside back duo Lachie Anderson and Joe Pincus to two year deals.
They join number eight Vaiolini Ekuasi, homegrown lock Josh Canham, and coaching trio Kevin Foote, Geoff Parling and Tim Sampson in re-committing to the 'Stockade' over the past fortnight.
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Both made their names in the Sevens program, selected at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
Anderson made his debut for the Rebels in 2020, re-establishing his spot in the starting side in 2023 after dealing with injuries.
“I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to call Melbourne home for at least another two years,” Anderson said.
“Since moving here in 2020 I have loved the opportunity to grow, learn and develop both on and off the field. On top of that, being able to keep playing alongside some of my best mates and under the guidance of Foote, Sampson, and Parling made it an easy decision to stay.
“I’ve taken huge confidence in playing week to week and repaying some of the faith the Club has shown in me after an injury-interrupted 2022 campaign. Hopefully I can continue to build on that in the years to come.”
Meanwhile, Pincus was forced to wait for his Super Rugby debut until round two against the Hurricanes.
He has played four games since for the Rebels, including scoring in their win over the Reds at AAMI Park.
“I’ve loved getting my first taste of Super Rugby this year. I love the style of play we are playing at the moment and the freedom the coaches give us when it comes to game day,” Pincus said.
“The direction the team is heading in was a big reason why I re-signed, not to mention I love living and playing in Melbourne.
“The coaches have played a big role in my transition to Fifteens. Footey has been extremely helpful on the defensive side of things, and Sambo does a great job preparing us through the week. They don’t try and change our playing identity but rather put is in a position to use our strengths, and I think that’s been a key part of my transition to 15s.”
