Brumbies announce signing of outside-back Ben O’Donnell

Brumbies have announced the signing of Australia Sevens star Ben O'Donnell ahead of the 2023 season.

The 27-year-old played for Australia Sevens on 95 occasions since his debut in 2017 and went on to win the coveted Shawn Mackay award for Sevens player of the year in 2018.

“I’m excited to be back in Australia and to be joining such a highly respected club like the ACT Brumbies," he told the club's official website.

“Playing in Connacht was an unreal experience and I’m grateful for my time there and the mates I made but I’m looking forward to working every day with a world-class coaching staff and the boys here who have created a great culture from everything I have heard.

“Preseasons never get any easier but I'm excited for the hard work and especially looking forward to having a run around with my new teammates on Saturday."

Having started his career with Randwick in 2017, O'Donnell made a switch to Irish province Connacht in 2020 and Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham is delighted to have his services until the 2024 season.

“Ben will be a quality addition to our group.”

“Ben was a very accomplished 7s player, and he’s made a good transition to 15s, but we feel he’s got a great chance to develop further in our environment.

“With his pace and feel for the game, Ben’s an option across the backline and we’re excited to see how he goes on Saturday.”