The Plus500 Brumbies are pleased to announce the re-signing of hooker Josh Mann-Rea for the 2018 and 2019 Super Rugby seasons.
Mann-Rea, affectionately known as ‘Bongo’, has extended his stay in the nation’s capital for a further two years after racking up his 50th appearance for the franchise in 2017.
The former Waratahs hooker made his Brumbies debut in 2013 against the Rebels, impressing with his brief cameo off the bench in a winning effort.
“I am pleased to be able to extend my deal with the Brumbies,” Mann-Rea commented.
“My time at the club has been memorable and I still feel I have a lot to offer the franchise. I felt that I have played some good rugby this season and am looking forward to repeating that next year.
“We have a strong culture at this club and have some exciting young talent coming through. I am delighted that I will be able to play my part in helping to mentor the up-and-coming Brumbies.”
Brumbies Head Coach Stephen Larkham said he was happy to have Mann-Rea back on board for next year.
“Josh brings a lot of experience to the squad and is a real leader of the group,” Larkham said.
“He has been a stalwart of the franchise for several years now and has always given a fully committed performance. His will and determination are well known and he leads by example from the front.
“Hooker is a tough position to play and Josh’s experience in that role and his desire to keep on getting better and improving year-on-year are admirable qualities and the Brumbies are fortunate to have secured his signature.”
2014 was a breakout season for Mann-Rea, the Narromine born hooker becoming a regular fixture in the Brumbies team. His strong form earned him a call up into Ewen McKenzie’s Wallabies squad for the 2014 Rugby Championship, he would go on to make two appearances for the side.
The 36-year old has established himself as the Brumbies first choice rake, filling in admirably for the departed Stephen Moore.
Mann-Rea has started ten games for the Brumbies in 2017, scoring two tries and continuing to be one of the most consistent hookers in Australian Rugby.
PROFILE
Name
Josh Mann-Rea
DOB
19/02/1981
Place of Birth
Narromine
Height
181cm
Weight
108kg
Position
Hooker
CLUBS
YEAR
TEAM
CAPS
POINTS
2007
Ballymore Tornadoes (ARC)
7
10
2010-2011
Kyuden Voltex (Japan)
–2012
Waratahs (Super Rugby)
1
0
2013-
Brumbies
55
25
2014
NSW Country Eagles (NRC)
2
0
2016
UC Vikings (NRC
3
25
INTERNATIONAL
YEAR
TEAM
CAPS
POINTS
2014
Australia
2
0
