Connacht Snap Up Back Rower Fainga’a

Connacht Rugby have announced the signing of back rower Colby Fainga’a from Australian Super Rugby side the Melbourne Rebels. He will join up with the Connacht squad on the conclusion of the Rebels’ Super Rugby season. 

Colby Fainga’a made his Super Rugby debut playing for the Brumbies when Andy Friend was their head coach in 2010 and went on to play every game for the club in the 2011 season.

The 27-year-old forward joined the Rebels in 2014 and in his first season was awarded the highest honour in the club when he was named the Players’ Player of the year. This achievement was followed by his appointment as co-captain of the Melbourne Rising side in 2015.

The versatile back rower has gone on to make 100 Super Rugby appearances, the latest coming in the Rebels’ clash with the Reds last weekend. He captained the Australian Under-20s in 2011 and made seven appearances that season.

Commenting on Connacht’s latest signing, the province’s newly-arrived head coach Andy Friend said: “We are delighted to announce the signing of Colby Fainga’a ahead of the new season. When I was head coach at the Brumbies, Colby signed his first professional contract with the club, so I have an in-depth knowledge of the qualities he brings.

“With 100 Super Rugby appearances under his belt, Colby brings massive experience. In addition to his versatility on the field, he has a fantastic attitude off it and will be a big addition to Connacht in the seasons ahead.”