Northampton Saints are pleased to announce the official signing of Australian back row Josh Kemeny from the Melbourne Rebels in preparation for the 2024/25 season. At a height of 6’4″ and weighing 110kg, Kemeny has established himself as a formidable player, with 27 Super Rugby appearances for the Rebels, starting in 24 of those matches since his debut in 2020.
Recognized for his mobility and powerful ball-carrying abilities, Kemeny has become one of the standout performers for the Rebels, showcasing his prowess in 12 out of 15 Super Rugby matches last season. During this time, he amassed an impressive 68 carries, covered 306 metres, and made 109 tackles throughout the competition.
A product of the prestigious Cranbrook School in Sydney, Kemeny’s talent was quickly acknowledged, earning him a spot in the New South Wales Schools team before representing Australia in the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in France in 2018. His exceptional skills led to him catching the eye of the Rebels and securing a spot on their roster after aiding the team in securing a second consecutive Shute Shield title while studying for a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Management at Sydney University.
Following an impressive stint with the Rebels, Kemeny earned his first international cap for the Wallabies in July 2023, and subsequently earned another at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Expressing his enthusiasm for joining Northampton Saints, Kemeny highlighted the Club’s track record in developing players and their recent performances in the Gallagher Premiership and Europe, underlining his ambition to contribute to the team’s success and play a pivotal role in furthering his own development.
The Director of Rugby for Northampton Saints, Phil Dowson, commended Kemeny’s explosive game and determination to enhance his skills, making him a perfect match for the rigors of English rugby. Dowson highlighted Kemeny’s athleticism, power, speed, and strong work ethic as key attributes that will undoubtedly bolster the team’s roster.
Kemeny’s eagerness to challenge himself in the demanding environment of the Premiership resonated with the coaching staff and demonstrated his commitment to continuous improvement as a player, a quality highly valued by Northampton Saints. As the Club looks ahead to the upcoming season, Kemeny’s signing has generated palpable excitement among fans, as they eagerly anticipate witnessing the burgeoning talent of the Australian star on the field.
In conclusion, Northampton Saints’ acquisition of Josh Kemeny stands as a testament to the Club’s commitment to strengthening their squad and providing a platform for promising talents to thrive. With the new chapter set to unfold, Kemeny’s arrival has added an air of anticipation and excitement as he embarks on this new venture with the esteemed Northampton Saints.