Former Exeter Chiefs and England international scrumhalf Jack Maunder has confirmed that he has signed with Australian Super Rugby franchise the Melbourne Rebels.
Joining the Australian outfit ahead of the 2024 season, the 26-year-old Maunder will link up with former teammate and current Rebels assistant coach Geoff Parling.
Making his debut on England’s 2017 tour of Argentina, the Premiership winning scrumhalf would only feature for three minutes.
This would be his only appearance for England’s senior national side and as such he has expressed his excitement at experiencing another rugby culture.
“When the opportunity came up to come to a different country and play in a competition I’ve watched since I was a kid, I was extremely grateful and couldn’t be more excited to learn and develop as much as I can for the Rebels,” Maunder told the Rebels’ official website.
“I played with Geoff Parling at Exeter, and he is someone I have always looked up to, so when Geoff and Kevin reached out and told me the aspirations that the club has, but also how great Melbourne is, I was immediately very excited to join.
“Super Rugby tests you in different ways and it’s played with a faster, more attacking style, so I’m looking forward to developing my game management and reading the game differently.
“I want to help and be a part of a successful Rebels team, which is stacked with talented, exciting players and great coaches and I really believe that the group can be successful next year.” Maunder concluded.
Joining a Melbourne squad possessing several promising young players, most notably Wallabies flyhalf Carter Gordon. Maunder’s experience of top level competition will no doubt benefit the 22-year-old playmaker.
A point that Rebels General Manager Nick Stiles echoed, “Jack’s signing is a strategic recruitment for our Club as we look to continue evolving our squad for season 2024.
“Jack boasts a wealth of top level experience and comes from a successful rugby program that has tasted English Premiership success, so we’re really excited to welcome him to the Melbourne Rebels and have him be a part of what we’re building.”
“We believe Jack’s ability to control the tempo of a game, his sharp passes and long-range kicking abilities will compliment our playing model, as we look to take our fast, fearless and resolute approach to new heights in 2024.”
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