Rebels re-sign three key players

The trio have all played key roles in the Melbourne Rebels' start to the 2016 Super Rugby season, with a franchise record of four wins and two losses before their bye this weekend.

"We're thrilled to have re-signed three quality players and individuals to keep in Tom [English], Sam [Jeffries] and Ben [Meehan] at the Rebels organisation for years to come," said Baden Stephenson, Rebels General Manager Rugby Operations.

"The three players are valued members of the organisation and epitomise the Rebels with hard work, belief in the program and drive to achieve consistent high standards and results.

"The re-commitment of these three players is not just another vote of confidence in the club's vision and stability but a clear message that Melbourne is a serious Rugby destination."

English, who first joined the Rebels as an extended playing squad member in 2012, has re-signed with the franchise until the end of 2018. The back won the Rebels' Rookie of the Year award in 2013 and has gone on to score nine tries in 44 Super Rugby appearances before suffering an injury in the Rebels loss to the Highlanders in Round Five.

Jeffries made his Super Rugby debut with the Rebels after coming off the bench against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in 2014 after initially joining the franchise as an EPS player. The former Australian Under-20 representative has made ten appearances for the Rebels, including four off the bench in 2016. The 23-year-old has re-signed until the end of 2018.

Talented scrumhalf Meehan has shown his ability in 2016 after he started the first five games of the season and scored three tries while captain Nic Stirzaker recovered from a shoulder reconstruction. The 23-year-old Queenslander has made 14 Super Rugby appearances since his debut against the Cheetahs in the opening round of the 2014 season. Meehan has committed to the franchise for 2017.

The Melbourne Rebels have a bye in Round Seven before returning to host the Hurricanes in Melbourne on Friday, April 15.