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The Western Force have landed an impressive signing coup with Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa heading home to Australia after three years in France.
First revealed by The Roar last July, the 28-year-old has 14 Wallabies caps and will join the Force after spending the past three seasons playing in France with Montpellier, where he played 56 times in the Top 14 and European Rugby Champions Cup.
Paenga-Amosa previously spent four years with the Queensland Reds from 2018 to 2021 and his signing will be a welcome gift for Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt with resources stretched at No.2.
The signing comes on the heels of the Force recruiting Kurtley Beale, with Wallabies Ben Donaldson and Nic White joining in the off-season.
Western Force general manager of rugby Matt Hodgson said in a statement: “We’re delighted to have Brandon commit to the Force on a long-term basis.
“We are committed to building squad depth in all positions and Brandon adds to our hooker options. He brings quality, pedigree and experience domestically and internationally, so he’ll add plenty to the group.
“We know Brandon is excited by the Force project that we’re building and he’s very motivated to get back into the Wallabies set-up with a view to next year’s British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 World Cup in Australia.”
Brandon Paenga-Amosa in action during an Australian Wallabies training session at Wesley Playing Fields on September 01, 2021 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
Paenga-Amosa said in the statement that he was attracted by the Force’s long-term vision and the opportunity to work with head coach Simon Cron.
He also said boosting his Wallabies aspirations was a factor too, having last worn the gold jersey in the 2021 Rugby Championship.
“I’m so keen to be back in Australia, it’s home,” Paenga-Amosa said. “I’m really excited to be a part of the Force set-up, especially working with Crono and the lads that are there.
“Returning to Australia and putting my hand up for the Wallabies again was a big attraction after three seasons in France with Montpellier.
“I’m big on culture both on and off the field, so adding to the culture that is already being established is one of the key focus points for me.”
Paenga-Amosa will arrive in Australia in June at the conclusion of the French Top 14 season.