The Melbourne Rebels are excited to announce the signing of Australian Sevens star, Darby Lancaster.
The highly sought-after winger has penned a two-year deal to join the Rebels, following in the footsteps of former Sevens’ stars, Lachie Anderson and Joe Pincus.
Lancaster has been one of the breakout stars of this year’s World Series Sevens, scoring 20 tries in just 34 matches, blowing opponents away with his blistering speed and impact on both sides of the ball.
Lancaster was recently included in Nathan Grey’s 31-man squad to take on the New Zealand Under-20's, named alongside Melbourne Rebels Daniel Maiava, Leafi Talataina, and recent re-signings Mason Gordon and David Vaihu.
At just nineteen-years-old with his best rugby ahead of him, Lancaster is considered one of the hottest properties in Australian rugby.
Lancaster said he was excited to join the Rebels and be a part of a XV’s program built on playing fast, expansive rugby.
“The Rebels seem to run a great program in a phenomenal city, which loves its sport,” said Lancaster.
“The Rebels play an exciting and expansive style of rugby which will suit me as an outside back.”
“Obviously seeing the success of Joe Pincus and Lachie Anderson as former Sevens’ players, I can take great confidence in the Rebels ability to help me transition successfully back into XV’s.
“Both players are role models of mine and I hope to follow in their footsteps. I have loved watching them play this year and look forward to hopefully playing alongside them next year on AAMI Park.
“I have high hopes for next year to be successful alongside a handful of new signings complimenting a strong core group of players there.”
Melbourne Rebels GM of Rugby, Nick Stiles, said the Club was thrilled to sign another world class young talent.
“This is a great signing for the Melbourne Rebels, especially after such a strong season with the Australian Sevens,” said Stiles.
“Darby is a team-first, high-character guy, who’s elite speed and finishing abilities will compliment our fast, fearless and resolute playing style moving forward.”
“At just nineteen-years-old, Darby’s signing will further bolster our young and emerging talent depth, and signifies the strong future of our Club as we look to achieve sustained success throughout this Golden Decade of rugby in Australia.”
