They may still be halfway through their season, but Western Force have officially begun to build their squad for 2025, announcing the signing of former Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa.
The 28 year-old has put pen to paper with the Force after three years in France with French side Montpellier, including their 2022 Top 14 championship win.
Paenga-Amosa has 14 Wallabies caps to his name and played 56 games for the French side after more than 50 Super Rugby appearances for the Queensland Reds.
The number two will join the Force upon the completion of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific season and will be available in 2025.
Western Force general manager of rugby Matt Hodgson said they were delighted Paenga-Amosa had committed on a long-term basis.
“We are committed to building squad depth in all positions and Brandon adds to our hooker options. He brings quality, pedigree and experience domestically and internationally, so he’ll add plenty to the group,” he said.
“We know Brandon is excited by the Force project that we’re building and he’s very motivated to get back into the Wallabies set-up with a view to next year’s British and Irish Lions tour and the 2027 World Cup in Australia.”
Paenga-Amosa, who has started 10 games for Montpellier this season, said he was attracted by the Force’s long-term vision and the opportunity to work with head coach Simon Cron, and flagged aspiration to return to the Wallabies set-up.
“I’m so keen to be back in Australia, it’s home. I’m really excited to be a part of the Force set-up, especially working with Crono and the lads that are there.
“Returning to Australia and putting my hand up for the Wallabies again was a big attraction after three seasons in France with Montpellier.
“I’m big on culture both on and off the field, so adding to the culture that is already being established is one of the key focus points for me.”
