Share

Rebels snare All Blacks lock

Waikato - One-Test All Black Kevin O'Neill is to join the new Australian side Melbourne Rebels for next year's expanded Super 15 series, his Waikato province announced on Saturday.

The 2.01m lock had played 32 Super 14 matches for the Chiefs after earlier appearing for the Crusaders.

"We are sorry to be losing such an experienced forward from our province, however we are aware that comes with the territory in professional rugby," Waikato coach Chris Gibbes said.

Melbourne have already signed former Wallabies skipper Stirling Mortlock, England flyhalf Danny Cipriani and flank Michael Lipman, All Blacks prop Greg Somerville, Welsh forward Gareth Delve and former Wallabies' hooker Adam Freier.

The announcement of O'Neill's departure comes as Waikato revealed they had secured Brumbies flyhalf Christian Lealiifano to play for the province in New Zealand's domestic competition this season.

The New Zealand-born Lealiifano played six Super 14 games for the Brumbies this year before being sidelined with a knee injury.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2244 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE