10 best unsigned players in Australian rugby – Part two
CLICK HERE: 10 best unsigned players – Part one
Sam Ward – Warringah
After playing a season in Italy, Warringah No.8 Sam Ward is back in Australia and has been impressive in his opening two NRC matches for the NSW Country Eagles. Unlike other prospects, at 26, Ward is ready to play Super Rugby immediately and would be a handy pickup for a number of the Australian franchises.
Mitch Felsman – Brothers/Brisbane City
Despite scoring 21 tries for Brothers this year, winger Mitch Felsman was initially overlooked for a spot in Brisbane City’s NRC squad. The 24-year old was called in as an injury replacement last week and made an immediate impact, scoring two crucial second half tries in his side’s tight win over the Rams on Saturday.
Apo Latunipulu – Southern Districts/Western Sydney Rams
After missing the first half of the season with a knee injury, the 24-year old centre was brilliant late in the year, particularly in a two try performance against Randwick in the opening week of the Shute Shield finals. While the Waratahs have signed 21-year old centre Irae Simone for next season, Latunipulu is another that wouldn’t look out of place in Super Rugby.
Lachlan Swinton – Sydney Uni
In his first year out of school, 19-year old Lachlan Swinton was outstanding for Sydney Uni this year and will play plenty of Super Rugby in due time. Physically, the lock didn’t look out of place in the Shute Shield finals, however he may benefit from another year or two in club rugby.
Issak Fines-Leleiwasa – Sunnybank/QLD Country
21-year old scrumhalf Issak Fines-Leleiwasa was a standout for Sunnybank this year and picked up the Alec Evans medal as the Premier Rugby player of the year. Labelled Will Genia 2.0, Fines-Leleiwasa has electric speed and can create something from nothing. While he may need to play a more structured game in Super Rugby, he certainly has all the skills.