Fainga'a extends Rebels contract

Fainga'a, preparing for Saturday's season opener against the Western Force at nib Stadium in Perth, put pen to paper this week to remain at the Melbourne Rebels until the end of 2018.

"We're very pleased to have locked in Colby through until 2018, it's a huge coup and great way to kick off the Super Rugby season this week," Rebels General Manager, Rugby Operations Baden Stephenson said.

"Colby has been an integral member of this club since joining the Rebels and continues to develop himself as a consistent player and leader on and off the field."

Melbourne beat Australian Super Rugby rivals to the prize signature of Fainga'a to ensure the former Australian Under-20 captain and Rebels' 2014 Player of the Year extend his stay in the Victorian capital. 

After making his Super Rugby debut with the Brumbies, the 24-year-old flank joined the Rebels in 2014 and has already amassed 65 appearances to his name – missing just one game in his first two years after joining Melbourne.

"It was an easy decision for me to extend my time with the Rebels for another two years, I'm settled in Melbourne and enjoying my time here," Fainga'a said.

"The club is full of quality players, there's so much competition for positions in the Rebels back row which is really pushing all of us to become better and driving me to constantly lift my game."