Schoolboy star lured back to Australia from New Zealand

Australian schoolboy sensation Nick Frost has been lured back to his homeland from New Zealand after spending a year-and-a-half with the Crusaders.

The former Australian schools lock has cut short his three-year deal with the Christchurch club to take up an offer with the Brumbies that will see him stay in Canberra for two years as he eyes a spot in the Wallabies squad.

Frost hit the headlines in October 2017 after spurning the chance to join the Waratahs in favour of the Crusaders in a rare move that saw a New Zealand franchise cash in on an Australian teenage prodigy.

However, the 19-year-old, who stands at 2.05m tall, has already returned across the Tasman, and will remain with the Brumbies for the rest of the year.

There is no bad feeling about Frost’s departure from Christchurch though, with the teenage second rower describing his stay in the nine-time Super Rugby champions’ development system as invaluable.

“I learned a lot about structure and about how New Zealanders play rugby,” he said.

“It took me a while to learn, but once I got it, it came easily. It was a very enjoyable time. It certainly suited my style as a player but now I’m excited by the prospects on offer here.”

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar praised the youngster for taking himself outside of his comfort zone to enhance his rugby skills, and had high praise for his athleticism and mobility.

“Nick is a big boy and what strikes most is his athletic ability,” he said.

“He has a background in athletics and moves very well for a big man. We will work closely with Nick on his ongoing development through this year with his arrival now in preparation for the 2020 Brumbies season.”

Frost will kick-off his playing career in Canberra this weekend when he will take to the field for Queanbeyan Whites in the Griffin Legal John I Dent Cup.

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