Super Rugby Pacific: Western Force re-sign Wallabies fly-half Ben Donaldson for two years

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Super Rugby Pacific: Western Force re-sign Wallabies fly-half Ben Donaldson for two years

Western Force fly-half and Wallabies five-eighth candidate Ben Donaldson has recommitted to the club, penning a new deal to take him through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The reigning Nathan Sharpe Medalist and former Waratah knocked back overseas offers to extend his stay out west after agreeing to a new two-year contract with the Force.

Donaldson sits second in Super Rugby Pacific this season for both points scored (94) and goal-kicking conversion (76.5 per cent), trailing only All ******* star Damian McKenzie in both categories.

Blessed with line-breaking ability, best-evidenced his his added-time walk-off try against Moana Pasifika in round one, Donaldson’s form has put him firmly in the frame for the Wallabies 10 jersey ahead of the British and Irish Lions tour.

His decision to stay in Australia will also strengthen his case to start for the Wallabies at stand-off come the 2027 World Cup on home soil, with spots for overseas-based players likely to be limited.

The 27-year-old played at the 2023 World Cup and has played 16 times for the Wallabies, including nine Tests last year under Joe Schmidt.

Donaldson said he was excited to re-sign with his ‘Force family’ and had loved his time in WA.

“We have a great culture, which given many of us aren’t originally from here, feels like our family in Perth and that makes us a close-knit unit,” he said.

“This season has been disappointing for us, not achieving what we set out to achieve, but there’s been glimpses of what we can do and that all fuels the fire.

“I had a few offers from overseas to weigh up, but I’m delighted to be staying in *********** rugby with the Lions tour later this year as well as the Bledisloe Cup in Perth.

“There’s obviously also the lure of the home 2027 World Cup, which is extremely motivating.

“I’d love to take the Force and *********** rugby to high levels and leave it in a better place.”

Camera IconDonaldson won the 2024 Nathan Sharpe Medal. Credit: Paul Kane/Getty Images

Force coach Simon Cron said Donaldson’s re-signing was an important step forward for the team.

“He’s a leader in our group and a core member of driving the Western Force forward,” he said.

“I know he’s disappointed, like I am, about some of the close games this year, but if we can keep the core playing group together, it’s going to hold us in great stead moving forward.

“Most importantly, he’s an amazing human who continues to thrive in WA and we’re looking forward to helping him continue his journey both with us and the Wallabies.”

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