NSW Waratahs centre David Horwitz has signed with Melbourne, becoming the first player from another Australian Super Rugby club to commit to the Rebels or Western Force since the announcement one of those sides will be cut from the 2018 competition.
The Rebels on Tuesday confirmed the signing of Horwitz on a one-year deal and say there’s more to come, despite the Australian Rugby Union still to declare which side faces the axe.
The 22-year-old saw the writing on the wall at NSW with the return of Wallabies centre Kurtley Beale, while the Rebels are losing backs Mitch Inman to French club Oyonnax and Jack Debreczeni to Japan.
Ahead of Friday’s final match of a disappointing season, against the Jaguares at AAMI Park, Melbourne are continuing to focus on the future.
“David’s signature is a coup for the Melbourne Rebels and clear indication that this club is building a competitive squad to challenge for the Australian Conference and Super Rugby finals,” Rebels chief executive Baden Stephenson said.
“David will complement our backline nicely which will boast three current Wallaby squad members and five current Australian U20’s representatives in 2018.
“David will add versatility, strong competition and experience so we’re pleased that he will continue his promising career with the Rebels and contribute to the club.”
Horwitz broke the Rebels’ hearts with a game-winning try in the dying seconds at AAMI Park earlier this season.
He has played the last 10 match at inside centre, appearing in all but one of their 14 matches this season and has been one of the Waratahs’ most consistent performers.
Horwitz’s signing follows that of Rebels skipper Nic Stirzaker, hooker James Hanson, lock Steven Cummins and prop Fereti Sa’aga last week.
The clash with the Argentinian Jaguares, who upset the Waratahs last round, will be the last under departing coach Tony McGahan, with the club yet to name a replacement.
Davo
Guest
Horwitz has been "promising" for two years at the Waratahs and never really delivered much. In that situation it's often best for everyone, particularly the player himself, that he tries his hand elsewhere.
Jock Cornet
Guest
Agree he is not a first grader
Timbo (L)
Roar Guru
The Puma's call themselves the Jaguars in SR, When they are the only team left, perhaps Sydney should be called the petals - they look great and smell nice but wilt in the heat and turn to compost.
Crazy Horse
Roar Pro
He's just after a contract which the ARU has said they'll honour if the Rebels are cut.
piru
Roar Rookie
The end game I think if for Aussie to field only one team (the Waratahs of course). They'll be both representative of Sydney and Australia, as they'll just change their blue jerseys for gold ones come the test season.
Marto
Guest
Like Foley Phipps and Hanigan ..
John R
Roar Guru
Pulling a Phipps?
rugby tragic
Guest
Good luck to him.
AndyS
Guest
Hmmm, thought the Force would be actually gone before the drums started for the Rebels, but there you go...
Paul D
Roar Rookie
It's a good move for him (assuming the Rebels exist next year). Too many playmakers in the Waratahs squad when other teams are fielding imports. I'm assuming he's heading there as a 10. He's easily as good as Volavola or JGB.
jameswm
Roar Guru
Beale v Horwitz. No offence Dave, but not a tough choice.
Alex James
Roar Rookie
Did they steal him? Or did he just opt for a different set up? And is he promising talent if Beale will walk straight in?
Lube Goat
Guest
Losing Horwitz is no great loss. He looks to be no better than an average first grader.