The NSW Waratahs have shored up their front-row depth after re-signing Siosifa Amone and Ethan Dobbins.
Both played critical roles in the club's 2025 season after joining at the start of the year.
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Amone etched himself into cult hero status on debut after scoring two tries against the Highlanders, including the match winner.
The former Force prop would play four further games in the season, adding to the 13 caps in the west.
“It’s unbelievable to think about where I am now from where I was pre-season; for my family too,” Amone said of re-signing with the NSW Waratahs.
“To know that the coaches have that faith in me helps me to make myself a better player and to get the most out of myself.”
As for Dobbins, he started four games for the Waratahs after injuries to Dave Porecki and Mahe Vailanu.
"Means everything to me. After the Rebels season I was unsure I would get to play Super Rugby again," he admitted.
“I was incredibly fortunate and grateful for Dan McKellar and the NSW Waratahs ... It’s a privilege with the quality of people. I feel at home.”
Both are likely to play big roles in the NSW Waratahs' tour match against the British & Irish Lions on July 5, with front-rowers Angus Bell, Dave Porecki and Taniela Tupou all selected for the Wallabies squad to face Fiji the following day.
“It only comes around only every 12 years and for most players it will be a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Amone said. “If I get selected, it will be an unforgettable experience for me and my family.”
"You grow up dreaming about it. They bring so much history, quality, and intensity. To face the world’s best in the NSW Waratahs jersey would be massive for me and my family. I would cherish it forever," Dobbins added.
NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar was equally pleased to retain the duo in Daceyville, praising their commitment to the rebuild.
“[Sifa] is a powerful player, a real point of difference as a front rower. He is incredibly explosive," McKellar said. “He has worked hard and must continue to work hard. He has earned the opportunity to be here another couple of years.
“Now he must take that on and work on being the best professional he can be. That means getting in and wanting to be the best version of himself. If he does that, his potential is untapped.”
“...I remember watching vision of ‘Dobbo’ when he was playing for the West Bulldogs in Brisbane.
“He is a very good rugby player who has worked hard to develop his set piece; and through injury, he got an opportunity, and he has taken it.
“Now, as with any young player, the challenge is backing it up week after week after week. But I’m really pleased to have ‘Dobbo’ around.”
