The ACT Brumbies have signed a former Junior Wallaby searching for his Super Rugby comeback as Dan McKellar looks to add depth to their forward stocks.
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Tighthead prop Shambeckler Vui has signed a one-year deal with the Brumbies following a two year stint with the NSW Waratahs.
The 22-year-old prop made nine Super Rugby appearances across three seasons with NSW and the Western Force, but suffered a season-ending foot injury during a trial match earlier this year.
"This is the next step on my Super Rugby journey and I'm excited to see where this is all going to take me," Vui said.
"It's a comeback season for me because I missed the last one due to injury, so I want to make the most of this comeback."
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McKellar has been eyeing the former Australian under-20s player since his debut season with the Western Force and reached out when his Waratahs' contract ran out this year.
Vui will bolster the Brumbies' depth in the front-row and will team up with the likes of Allan Alaalatoa, Scott Sio and James Slipper.
"It'll be an awesome experience to train with and against those guys to see what standard is required from the Wallabies," Vui said.
"I've heard a lot about [Alan and Scott], they both play front-row and have Samoan heritage like me so I'm excited to meet them in person."
The signing news comes after the Brumbies added scrumhalf Isaak Fines and Shute Shield star Guy Porter to their roster.
The Brumbies are still searching for a back to fill the void of departing stars Sam Carter and Rory Arnold as they look to build on a semi-final appearence.
But their departures present an opportunity for Super Rugby hopefuls like Vui to make a name for themselves in the competition.
"Sham is a talented footballer, and someone who has already played at the professional level, so we're excited for him to be joining our group," McKellar said.
"If he works hard on developing all areas of his game and dedicates himself to learning our way of playing, he'll give himself a chance of playing Super Rugby in 2020.
"We pride ourselves at this club on developing our players and getting the best out of each and every one of them. We look forward to working closely with Sham to ensure this trend continues."
Lucie Bertoldo
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
Lucie Bertoldo is a sports reporter for the Canberra Times.
