Brumbies land Pumas scrumhalf
Cubelli has 45 test caps for his country, the most recent being the third-place playoff at the World Cup against South Africa, in which he started at scrumhalf for Los Pumas.
Brumbies CEO Michael Jones said Cubelli was presented a number of options after a very successful international season, including the new Argentinian Super Rugby side which will boast 21 of their World Cup semifinal squad, and was very happy to have secured the international star.
“We are extremely fortunate to have secured Tomás for the next two seasons,” Jones said.
“We started our discussions with Tomás and the Argentine national body early in the year and whilst it has been a very long process, we feel our perseverance has well and truly paid off.
“The Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) have been fantastic throughout the entire period. Obviously Tomás is a very valuable property for them but they have taken a very mature and strategic view that, as one of their key players for the future, he would really benefit from being part of the renowned Brumbies program and playing alongside so many Wallabies and under Wallaby attack coach Stephen Larkham.
“The UAR fully support the development of their elite players and we have seen that their efforts over the past few years are really bearing dividends with a great World Cup campaign. Securing Tomás for the Brumbies is just an extension of this development commitment.”
“One of the UAR concerns was whether Tomás would be available for Los Pumas Test matches and we have assured them that we are keen for him to continue his international career and to play at the top level.
“Tomás is a fantastic reader of the game, he is a great attacking scrumhalf and very physical. He has a great pass and solid kicking game which will really suit our style of play. I really think playing under Stephen Larkham and alongside world-class players such as Christian Lealiifano and Matt Toomua, Tomás will really come into his own. He has always had a desire to learn and grow as a player and we think we can help him do that here at the Brumbies.” Jones said.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham has been heavily involved in the recruitment of Cubelli, meeting him in Sydney prior the commencement of The Rugby Championship.
“We’ve seen through his performances in the Rugby Championship and the great form he showed at the Rugby World Cup, particularly against the All Blacks, Tomás has the necessary skills and knowledge of the game to successfully fit into our structure, and be a game-breaker in Super Rugby,” Larkham said.
A UAR Spokesperson says Cubelli has the blessing of Argentina’s governing body to link with the Brumbies for the next two years.
“We wish Tomás all the best on his move to the Brumbies. Linking with Stephen Larkham and the Brumbies world-class program will allow Tomás to develop his skills in the world’s hardest club competition.
“Tomás has spoken of his desire to still represent Los Pumas while he is signed to the Brumbies and this contract will allow him to do so, which is great news for our national team.
“The entry of an Argentine franchise to Super Rugby will allow our sport and our players to continue to develop, underpinned by participation in this great tournament which is something that fills us with joy and pride.
“Tomás is an Argentine player who has developed from grassroots to the professional game. Entry to Super Rugby will give our top players, like Tomás, an incredible opportunity to grow and our fans the chance to enjoy watching our elite players going up against the best players in the world.”
