Melbourne Rebels announce signing of Alex Mafi

Melbourne Rebels have announced the signing of hooker Alex Mafi from rivals Queensland Reds ahead of the 2023 season.

Mafi made his professional rugby debut with Queensland Country in 2015 with his Super Rugby debut for Reds coming a year later.

Having played nine games in his first game for the Reds, the 25-year-old went on to make another 53 appearances and was pivotal in the club winning the Super Rugby AU in 2020.

“I was also a big fan from afar of the efforts and emphasis the Rebels showed in recognising the Pasifika culture on and off the field," he told the club's official website.

“The Pasifika jersey looked unreal this year. I also saw the photos from the Club’s post-match ceremony in the change-room, and to see Kevin Foote attempting the Samoan Siva was not just funny, but awesome to see the Pasifika culture being embraced.

“Looking ahead to next year, I’ll be aiming to bring a point of difference to our team’s attack and provide the backs with a platform to launch off the set-piece. I can’t wait.”

Melbourne Rebels head coach Kevin Foote is delighted with the announcement of Mafi joining the club.

“We’re very excited to have Alex join the Rebels,” said Foote

“Alex is a gifted player with a wealth of Super Rugby experience, who at just twenty-five, still has an enormous amount of growth in his game, so we’re thrilled that’s going to be at the Melbourne Rebels.

“He’s another high-character person whom we believe will add a lot of value to our Club on and off the field for years to come, so that’s really exciting for our fans.”