Melbourne Rebels have confirmed that Wallabies, Mark Gerrard and Rodney Blake will join the Super 15 squad for 2011.
Currently in Tokyo with Japanese club, NTT Communications, fullback, Mark Gerrard is excited about the unique opportunity Melbourne presents as he prepares for his tenth Super rugby season.
In commenting on his decision to return to Australia, Gerrard said, "I've enjoyed every minute of my time in Japan. The objective in going overseas was to refresh me as a person and I've achieved that.
Now, I'm ready to take on a new challenge. This is a rare chance to be a part of building something from scratch. I'm honoured to be part of the foundation team and am particularly looking forward to helping grow the game of rugby in Victoria."
Mark Gerrard, who played 23 Tests between 2005 and the 2007 World Cup, made his Super debut with the Waratahs in 2002 and moved to the Brumbies the following year.
He has earned 79 Super rugby caps and is third on the ACT side's list of all-time point scorers behind fellow Rebel, Stirling Mortlock and Joe Roff. Gerrard also helped the Brumbies to their Super 12 title in 2004 with a three-try haul against the Crusaders in the final.
Assistant Coach Damien Hill is delighted with the signing. "Mark has invaluable Super rugby experience and brings with him insight and understanding of the culture we are building at the Melbourne Rebels." he said.
Prop, Rodney Blake has been plying his trade in France for the last two years at Bayonne in the Top 14 competition. A massive individual, Blake is referred to as ‘The Pillar of Bayonne'. In Australia, we know him as ‘Rodzilla'.
Blake began his Super rugby career with the Queensland Reds in 2005 and has 7 Test caps after debuting for the Wallabies in 2006.
Forwards coach Mark Bakewell said, "From his experience, Rodney returns to Australia with a broader range of skills as well as the desire to be the best player in his position in the country.
We believe he can exceed the expectations put on him before he left for France and become a major asset for the Rebels and Australian rugby."
There is no doubt ‘Rodzilla' will quickly become a favourite of Rebels supporters in 2011.
Mark Gerrard and Rodney Blake take the confirmed Melbourne Rebels team roster to 26 players.
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