Jarrah McLeod signs Super contract just days after hunting Lions

The ACT Brumbies have signed 21-year-old Jarrah McLeod on a two-year contract, just three days after he impressed against the British & Irish Lions at Marvel Stadium.

The 6’4, 104kg inside centre has been added to the Aussie side’s squad ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.

McLeod’s recent performance for the First Nations & Pasifika XV – where he impressed off the bench in a 24–19 loss to the Lions – further underlined his potential to Brumbies management.

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McLeod joins the Brumbies full-time after progressing through the Indigenous Pathways Program, a joint initiative between the club and Rugby Australia aimed at developing Indigenous talent. The program, spearheaded by Matthew Sonter—now Rugby Australia’s Indigenous Advisor—relocates players from around the country to Canberra, where they train with the Brumbies and play in the local club competition.

A Yuin man from Nowra on the New South Wales south coast, McLeod has featured in both rugby union and league pathways, including time in the Canterbury Bulldogs academy and schoolboy rugby with Knox Grammar. His breakthrough came at club level last year, playing a key role in Canberra Royals’ 34–19 John I Dent Cup Grand Final win over Tuggeranong Vikings, where he contributed a try and an assist.

Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham welcomed the signing.

“We’re really looking forward to Jarrah joining us full-time next season. He’s been on our radar for some time now and showed the world just how good he is the other night,” Larkham said.

“He’s an excellent ball carrier for someone of such a young age and has excelled in the local John I Dent Cup competition for the past couple of years. We’re excited to see how much Jarrah develops when he becomes part of the group.”

McLeod, who has been working part-time in manual labour while developing his rugby career, said the move was a significant moment for him and his family.

“I’m over the moon to sign on with the Brumbies. It’s very exciting for me and my family and I’m looking forward to representing the club in Super Rugby Aus and Super Rugby Pacific,” he said. “I’m very grateful to the Brumbies, Canberra Royals and the Indigenous Pathway Program to give me the opportunity to get to where I am today. I can’t wait to rip in.”