Brumbies sign Australia U20 backrower after breakout Shute Shield season

Australia U20 backrower TJ Talaileva has committed to the ACT Brumbies for the next two years, moving away from a rugby league heartland on a train-and-trial deal for 2027 before then moving onto a full contract in 2028.

Talaileva played junior rugby league for the Newcastle Knights Harold Matthews team, before suiting up for Shute Shield side Hunter Wildfires. At just 18, it didn’t take the loose forward long to make an impact in the prestigious New South Wales competition.

The teenager made a dozen appearances for the Wildfires and was ranked among the elite for metres gained, defenders beaten and tries scored, even though he missed a decent chunk of the season on representative duty with the Australia U20 side.

Talaileva featured in five matches at the World Rugby Junior World Championship in Georgia, which included a two-try haul in Australia’s remarkable 95-0 win over Spain. The flanker was often an impact player off the bench, but featured in the run-on side against Wales and Argentina.

“I’m really excited to be coming to Canberra and joining the Brumbies. It’s a great opportunity to test myself against some of the best backrowers in the country and around the world,” Talaileva said.

“I’ve always liked the way the Brumbies play — it’s tough, physical and exciting rugby. I’m looking forward to getting stuck into that environment and seeing what I can bring to the team.

“I’m really excited to be around the squad and get the opportunity to play alongside some of the best players in Australian rugby.”

Talaileva joins a Brumbies squad that includes some of Australia’s best forwards, with Wallaby Rob Valetini a two-time John Eales Medallist. Charlie Cale is another Brumby loose forward who has suited up for the Wallabies in recent weeks.

Former Australia U20 captain Toby Macpherson is coming off a strong rookie season at Super Rugby Pacific level, starting matches at both lock at No. 8. Talaileva will get the chance to train alongside these players as part of this multi-year deal with the Brums.

“TJ is a really exciting young player. He’s got a natural feel for the game, he sees things well and he’s got a real presence on the field. He’s been very impressive throughout the year with the Hunter Wildfires and then stepped up with the Junior Wallabies,” coach Stephen Larkham added.

“The Wildfires have done a fantastic job with TJ and given him a great platform to play senior rugby. We’re really pleased to have TJ coming into our environment. He’s already shown he can play at a high level, and we’re excited to see what he can bring to the Brumbies.”