The Queensland Reds have pulled off a recruitment coup with the signing of rising lock Josh Canham on a two-year deal.
Canham became one of the hottest properties on the market after Rugby Australia announced the demise of the Melbourne Rebels in May.
The athletic 23-year-old stands at 202cm and was one of the unluckiest players to miss out on Joe Schmidt’s first Wallabies squad after a breakout Super Rugby Pacific season.
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He joins a Reds roster that includes uncapped Wallabies squad locks Ryan Smith and Angus Blyth.
“There’s a point of difference around his skillset. He’s got a strong ball carry but he’s also got a natural offload game,” Reds general manager Sam Cordingley said.
“The lineout is such an important part of the game. Josh is not only a very good lineout caller but a particularly strong reader in defensive lineouts. He’s progressing as one of the best young locks in the country.”
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Canham was born in the United States but grew up in Melbourne.
The slow death of the cash strapped Rebels hit hard.
“It’s a weird one. It’s almost like having a little break up because of the relationships and friendships I had at that club,” Canham said.
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”It’s obviously sad but Australia’s other Super Rugby teams are going to be better and also more competitive against Kiwi teams.
“I’ll still be representing Victorian rugby in a sense. It doesn’t matter where you play, you are representing.”
Canham completed 16 offloads this season which is high for a lock and ranked in the top 10 overall in Super Rugby.
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“Scott Higginbotham was my favourite player growing up so, yeah, I do love to throw an offload or two,” Canham said.
“The Reds style of play suits me. What I see is a fast, skilful game, especially with the way the forwards and backs connect.
“I look forward to being a part of it. I’ve definitely got better in the tight stuff and I want to get better again next year.”