The Melbourne Rebels have snagged themselves an ex-All Black, signing Matt Proctor on a two-year deal.
Proctor returns to Super Rugby Pacific after a stint in England's Rugby Premiership with the Northampton Saints.
The veteran has a 10-year senior career, dating back to 2013 when he made his Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes.
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With the Wellington team, he won a Super Rugby title in 2016 before venturing overseas in 2019.
Now, Proctor is returning to the Pacific series with the Rebels on a deal that will keep him there until at least 2025.
"I'm looking forward to my return to Super Rugby," said Proctor, who made one start for the All Blacks in 2018 against Japan.
"The project at Melbourne Rebels is a great fit for me and the city is somewhere my family will be very happy.
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"I've experienced a different style of footy over the past four seasons playing in the UK, which has been massive for my development as a player and a person, so I'll be returning to Super Rugby a more experienced and well-rounded player.
"This is a new and exciting challenge for me and I can't wait to get started at the Rebels."
Proctor's signing is the latest in a long list of major acquisitions by the Rebels.
The most significant is that of Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou as well as Australian teammates Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Filipo Daugunu.
Sevens star and Junior Wallabies player Darby Lancaster also recently signed for the Rebels.
Notable re-signings include Wallabies players Josh Kemeny, Jordan Uelse, Pone Fa'amausili, Josh Canham, and Lachie Anderson.
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The Rebels have mooted more high-profile signings in weeks to come.
"We're thrilled to sign someone of Matt's calibre, both as a player and a person," said Melbourne Rebels head coach Kevin Foote.
"Matt Proctor is someone who is team-first and hungry to achieve with the Rebels, and will bring invaluable top level experience having played on the Super Rugby, English Championship and Test stages.
"We believe Matt's style of play – his explosive ball carrying and resolute defensive prowess – synergises perfectly with our game model – fast, fearless and resolute.
"We're excited to welcome Matt and his beautiful family to our Rebels family here in Melbourne and look forward to getting to work with him in preparation for season 2024."
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