Prolific NRL try-scorer Reece Robinson has jumped codes, signing a two-year deal with Super Rugby’s NSW Waratahs.
The 28-year-old fullback-winger admitted he’d been excited watching Wallabies fullback Israel Folau’s highly successful transition to rugby union with the Waratahs in recent years.
After NRL stints with Brisbane, Canberra and Parramatta, yielding 57 tries in 116 first-grade appearances, Robinson returns to the code he played in his youth.
“I played (union) all through high school, though that was at scrum-half, so hopefully it won’t take too long to get back into it,” said Robinson.
“I’ve watched a fair bit of the Waratahs over the past few seasons and watching guys like Israel and Kurtley (Beale) play some exciting footy has been fantastic.
“I can’t wait to get out there and play with them.”
New Waratahs head coach Daryl Gibson believed the speedster had plenty to offer his squad.
“He’s an excellent finisher, and his versatility across the field and experience in rugby league will definitely bring something different to the team,” said Gibson.
“To be able to add someone of his quality to our back-three depth is a real bonus for us.”
“We’ve got proven experience in transitioning league players into the rugby environment and we’re constantly improving this development process. We’re confident that Reece will achieve success with us and look to players like Israel and Sam (Lousi) for guidance along the way.”
Robinson will begin his pre-season with the Waratahs in mid-November.
Ken
Guest
He is quick but except for that not really notable. Barely a solid first-grader for much of his career, he had a reasonable season last year. I doubt there was a bidding war though so he could be a good value player for the Tahs.
Shane D
Roar Rookie
Guildford has been pulled from the Hawkes Bay ITM cup semi-final team due to 'personal reasons' this weekend. I would not be surprised to see him withdraw from his contract with the 'Tahs.
boomeranga
Guest
There's an article on The Scotsman about TN arriving in Glasgow so I think he goooone.
boomeranga
Guest
In YooTube highlight videos he looks a decent finisher (although an awful lot of easy fall over the line tries) and quicker than the wingers we are used to for the waratahs. Seems comfortable handling the ball as well. No tackling in the four minutes I watched. Bit of a journeyman record but played a game for the Indigenous All Stars which is usually a strong side. If he wasn't expensive then could be an alright signing. He was only on a one year deal with Parra so maybe didn't require a premium to get him.
Johnno
Guest
Who he? Do we need another back from R at this point. Sailor, Tuquiri, Izzy I can understand but this bloke? Am I'm missing something?
Alex L
Roar Rookie
That's what I was thinking too, his defense isn't good enough to play in the line but he's fairly sturdy under a high ball and can kick quite well as far as league fullbacks go.
Worlds Biggest
Guest
I assume Zac Guildord will play on one wing and perhaps Robinson / Kellaway on the other. Horne to 13. I'd keep Izzy at the back. Any word on if big TN is still going o/s ? Hope he stays, I'd move him to Number 8.
PeterK
Roar Guru
Probably be at f/b allowing Folau to play 13.
MJB
Guest
Really? Is he meant to be AAC's replacement or something? Forgive me but this seems like a bit of a dud deal: Robinson is no Folau, Tuquiri or Sailor.