Wallabies back-rower Scott Higginbotham is set to defect from the Queensland Reds to the Melbourne Rebels next season as the Super Rugby newcomers continue a week which could prove a club turning point.
Neither the Reds nor Rebels has officially confirmed Higginbotham’s move to Melbourne from 2013 on a multi-year contract.
But it appears a done deal and is expected to be announced within the next week.
Coach Damien Hill admitted Higginbotham would be a fantastic addition to his club.
“I’ve a lot of admiration for Scott as a player – he’s currently one of the best players in Australian rugby,” Hill said.
“We’re speaking to a number of players. Scott is one of the best ball-running, lineout-jumping options in Australian rugby.
“He’s a player well admired by anyone I’ve ever spoken to, and he seems to be getting better and better.”
Following a stunning upset win over the Crusaders last weekend, the Rebels can cement themselves as a club on the rise if they beat the Western Force in Perth on Sunday.
Back-to-back wins and away victories have both been hard to come by for the Rebels.
But the looming addition of Higginbotham following the recruitment of exciting duo James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale last season shows the Rebels have become serious players in recruitment.
On-field, a victory over the Force could get the club rolling towards an excellent finish to their second season.
Vice-captain Hugh Pyle believes the Rebels’ on-field efforts may well be helping convince players like Higginbotham there is potential at the club to achieve something great in future seasons.
“I’m sure the way we’ve been going the last couple of weeks has been able to help with guys making those kinds of decisions,” Pyle said.
The Rebels will name an unchanged starting line-up for the clash with the Force.
Utility back Richard Kingi has trained well to prove he is almost over a hamstring injury, but will be given one more week to ensure 100 per cent fitness.
“Richard Kingi is so close it’s not funny, but he’s not there quite yet,” Hill said.
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