Double boost for Wallabies

NEWS: Rugby Australia received a double boost with the signing of rising star duo Langi Gleeson and Cadeyrn Neville.

Gleeson has re-signed with the Waratahs until the end of 2025, while lock Cadeyrn Neville has re-signed with the Brumbies also until the end of 2025.

The 21-year-old Gleeson had a breakout year in 2022, making both his Waratahs and Wallabies debuts, the latter in a winning side at Murrayfield against Scotland in Edinburgh.

The powerful back row went on to feature in three Tests on last year’s Spring Tour, earning his first start at number eight in the Wallabies' come-from-behind win against Wales in Cardiff.

Born in Sydney, Gleeson’s performances in Super Rugby Pacific last year saw him selected in the Australia A program where he emerged as a standout player of the Pacific Nations Cup with dominant performances against Fiji and Tonga.

Gleeson has continued his strong form this year and was included in Eddie Jones’ first squad in April before being ruled out with injury.

Wallabies and NSW Waratahs backrow Langi Gleeson said: “It means a lot to be here for another two years. We are building nicely into the finals but my focus remains on playing well for the team week to week.”

“It was a tough start to the year after getting injured earlier on but it’s great to be getting some miles in the legs. The coaching staff were great too, they didn’t rush me back and helped me build throughout the season.

“I’m looking forward to playing tomorrow night in front of our home crowd at Allianz Stadium for the final time this year and the boys are keen to put together a performance for Hoops and Te Tera.

“There’s no doubt it’s an exciting time to be involved in Australian Rugby and I’ll be working hard to give myself the opportunity to make the most of it.”

Wallabies head coach Eddie Jones said: "Langi is a promising young player at the start of his career and to have him re-sign is great for supporters of Australian Rugby.

“Developing good habits and a strong work ethic will ensure he fulfils his potential.”

Meanwhile, Neville’s remarkable rugby journey began in 2009 when the then-21-year-old joined his hometown club, Manly. Within three years, Neville had made his Harvey Norman Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Melbourne Rebels and was on the radar for the Wallabies.

Neville would make 48 appearances for the Rebels, before moving north to Queensland at the end of 2015, and even further north to the Japanese Top League after two seasons for the Reds.

Neville returned to Super Rugby in 2020 with the Brumbies, arriving at the Brumbies just 10 days before making his debut against the Reds in round one. Now an integral part of the Brumbies squad, Neville’s leadership and play on the field has helped lay the platform for the Brumbies’ Super Rugby AU success in 2020, as well as the club’s run to the Super Rugby Pacific SemiFinals last year.

Brumbies lock Cadeyrn Neville said: “I was lucky enough to be brought back to Australia into an already great program and have since had four quality seasons with some great people who've helped me become a better player and achieve some milestones that I'll always be proud of.

“I'm very invested in the success of this place and the people in it so I feel privileged to be able to be part of it for the next two seasons. The body is showing no sign of slowing down so very pleased that I'll still be wearing a Brumbies jersey while at the top of my game.”

Wallabies head coach Eddie Jones said: “Cadeyrn is a good, tough player and it’s pleasing he’s re-signed with Australian Rugby.”

“We’re looking forward to watching him continue to compete hard for an opportunity to wear the gold jersey this year.”