Brumbies Forge Direct Pathway for Emerging Talent with Three Recent Super Rugby Pacific Signings
Canberra, ACT - The Brumbies are bolstering their squad with a new wave of talent identified through diverse development pathways, recently awarding Super Rugby Pacific contracts to Harvey Cordukes, alongside othre emerging players.This strategy highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing local and internationally-experienced athletes, filling key roster gaps left by departing players.
The Brumbies’ approach focuses on three distinct routes: domestic club rugby, international academy experiences, and portrayal at the australia U20s level. This multi-faceted system ensures a steady pipeline of talent, addressing the challenges of player retention and succession planning within the competitive Super Rugby landscape. The recent signings demonstrate the success of this model, providing opportunities for young players to transition into professional rugby.
Lock Harvey Cordukes, 21, exemplifies the benefits of international exposure. after representing Australia U20s at the World Championships in South Africa last year, Cordukes spent time with Provence in France during the 2024/25 season on an academy contract.Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham noted the positive impact of this experience, stating, “That’s the beauty of rugby, you do get these opportunities to travel the world and play the game. So it was certainly a good experience for him over there and one where he would have learnt a lot.”
Upon returning to canberra, Cordukes played a key role in Uni-Norths Owls’ first John I Dent Cup Premiership win since 1992.Larkham observed significant improvements in Cordukes’ skillset, notably his “catch pass skills,” adding, “Since Harvey’s come back, he’s shown huge improvements in that space.” Cordukes played in all of the Super Rugby AUS matches, demonstrating consistent growth throughout the season.
cordukes is poised to become a key second rower for the Brumbies next year, filling the void left by Tom Hooper’s move overseas. He will partner with Nick Frost, Lachie Shaw, and Cadeyrn Neville in the second row. Larkham emphasized Cordukes’ potential, saying, “He’s a big body and he’s got a lot of potential. It’s hard to find big bodies who’ve got rugby skill and he’s one of those guys. The longer he stays in our program now, he’ll go from strength to strength.” He is currently gaining further experience with an prospect in Hong Kong this weekend.
