Wallabies duo Carlo Tizzano and Ben Donaldson have become the latest players to re-commit their futures to Rugby Australia after penning new deals.
The pair were both involved in Joe Schmidt’s Test side last year and will likely be in contention to face the British and Irish Lions this summer.
Both men will remain in Australia with the Western Force until the end of the 2027 World Cup.
Wallabies duo pen new deals
Commenting on his new deal, fly-half Donaldson said: “I’ve been here two years now and loved my time in WA. We’ve got a great group of boys at the Force with the core having signed on for several more years which is exciting about where we can go as a group.
“I’m delighted to be staying in Australian rugby with the Lions Tour later year as well as a Bledisloe Cup here in Perth. There’s obviously also the lure of the home 2027 World Cup, which is extremely motivating.
“I’ve been part of the Wallabies squad in recent times and it’s a strong group with a good coaching unit, so hopefully I continue to be part of that moving forward with those big games and events to come.”
Of Donaldson, Rugby Australia Director of High Performance Peter Horne said: “Ben is a good young player and a strong example of the Australian Rugby pathways system at work.
“He’s earned good experience at both Super Rugby Pacific and Test level in recent years and we’re looking forward to watching him continue to work hard and develop his game.”
After making his Test debut against Italy in 2022, Donaldson has won 16 caps for the Wallabies.
Also commenting, back-rower Tizzano said: “I’m really excited to be staying in Australian rugby for two more years, especially in Perth with the Force.
“I couldn’t see myself playing for any other Super Rugby franchise. To help contribute to this Force team earning more wins and reaching semi-finals is something I’m really excited for.
“I’m looking forward to earning more opportunities with the Wallabies. It’s an exciting time in Australian rugby now with the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour and the home World Cup in 2027 which were two big factors.”
Of Tizzano, Horne said: “Carlo is a great example of the West Australian Rugby pathways and it’s certainly a positive to see him re-commit for a further two years with Australian Rugby.
“He has had a standout last 12 months and we know he’s extremely motivated to keep working hard and improving his game.”
Tizzano made his Wallabies debut in last year’s Rugby Championship against the Springboks, and has five caps to his name.
The pair also follow the likes of Pete Samu, Filipo Daugunu and Jake Gordon in re-committing their futures to the Wallabies until the World Cup in two years time.
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/wallabies-duo-latest-to-commit-future-to-rugby-australia-ahead-of-british-and-irish-lions-series
