Australian Rugby star, Andrew Kellaway, has officially announced his return to the NSW Waratahs following the agreement of a contract extension that will secure his position with the team until the conclusion of 2026. This development signifies a significant homecoming for Kellaway, who initially debuted for the Waratahs in 2016 before embarking on an extensive global odyssey to advance his Rugby career.
During his time away from the Waratahs, Kellaway garnered invaluable experience through his participation in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Japan. His endeavours culminated in a successful tenure with the Melbourne Rebels in 2021, ultimately resulting in his debut with the Wallabies. Subsequently, Kellaway has become a prominent figure within the national team, featuring in 26 Tests and serving as a vital component of the leadership cadre during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
In acknowledging his appreciation, Kellaway extended his gratitude to the Melbourne Rebels for affording him the opportunity to re-immerse himself in Australian Rugby in 2020. Furthermore, he expressed his thanks to his teammates, the support staff, and the supporters of the Rebels for their unwavering support over the preceding four seasons. Kellaway reflected on reuniting with the Waratahs after a six-year hiatus as the culmination of a personal journey within the Rugby realm, eagerly anticipating the prospect of contributing to the club in the upcoming year.
Looking towards the future, Kellaway is anticipated to assume a pivotal role in the forthcoming 2024 Test season, with the official announcement of the Wallabies squad scheduled for Friday. In response to Kellaway’s contract extension, Peter Horne, Rugby Australia’s Director of High-Performance, commended the player for his consistent performances and leadership attributes, underscoring the positive influence he has wielded over both club and country.
Moreover, the CEO of the NSW Waratahs, Paul Doorn, conveyed his elation at Kellaway’s reinstatement to the team, emphasizing the player’s proficiency, experience, and adaptability as invaluable assets to the Waratahs’ backline in the 2025 season. Kellaway will join a talented cohort of players, including emerging talent Max Jorgensen, NRL acquisition Joseph Suaalii, and Dylan Pietsch, a member of the 2023 Wallabies squad.
Undoubtedly, Kellaway’s comeback to the NSW Waratahs has evoked a sense of anticipation and optimism within the Rugby community, as fans eagerly await the imminent season to witness the impact of his presence on the team. With Kellaway’s established pedigree and the burgeoning talent within the Waratahs’ backline, the stage is set for an exhilarating period in Australian Rugby.