Another All Black becomes a Rebel
Fri, 28 May 2010 13:42
Another All Black has joined the Melbourne Rebels' ranks, while the new Super Rugby also scooped a Wallaby.
Veteran Wallaby prop Nick Henderson, who has made three Test appearances for Australia, joins the Rebels from the Western Force, while the Chiefs' All Black lock Kevin O'Neill also signed.
The Kiwi lock, who played one Test for the All Blacks, joins compatriots Greg Somerville and Hoani Macdonald at the Rebels.
O'Neill missed most of this year's Super 14 through an Achilles injury, picked up on the team's early season trip to South Africa and only made it back on the field for the last couple of rounds of the competition.
The 28-year-old, has always been known as a hard working lock who excels at the tight play and is a strong line-out option.
Forwards coach Mark Bakewell said of the signings: "His [O'Neill's] nickname is Giant, which gives you some indication as to the formidable size of the man. Kevin is one of the Chief's most experienced players and his great strength and skill will be of enormous value."
"[Henderson's] natural all round game will be a major asset to the Rebels while his signature takes us another step toward having a very well balanced pack."
The Rebels are already taking shape into a handy outfit for next year's Super 15 with plenty of experience in their ranks.
Players already on their books include Greg Somerville, Hoani MacDonald, Danny Cipriani, Cooper Vuna, Stirling Mortlock, Julian Huxley, Gareth Delve and Adam Freier.
O'Neill's departure will be a blow for the Chiefs, who have already lost Sione Lauaki from their forwards for next year, with the powerful No 8 signing with Clermont in France.
It means Culum Rettalick, who ended up playing a fair bit for the Chiefs this year will feature again heavily next season and pack down in the second row with Craig Clarke.
Sources: Stuff.co.nz and AAP
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