Source: https://www.rugby.com.au/news/matt-philip-resigns-with-melbourne-rebels-rugby-australia-wallabies-news-202148

Matt Philip has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Melbourne Rebels and Rugby Australia.

Philip will re-join the Rebels in 2022 after a stint with Top 14 club Pau for the 2020-21 season.

I’m looking forward to giving something back to the club. Without the Rebels and the people involved in the environment, I definitely wouldn’t be in the position I am today. I want to achieve some club goals and bring home some silverware,” Philip said in a statement.

“The Top 14 has been a great opportunity for growth both on-and-off the field. A lot of games are in cold, wet weather and against some big bodies so as a tight five forward, it’s definitely helped me improve and grow my game.

“France has obviously been in lockdown since I arrived, so this has forced me to also develop and mature, becoming a more well-rounded person off the field

“Playing for your country and representing your family is one of the best feelings I have had as a person to date.

“I have worked hard on bringing a level of consistency to my game with my carries, my set-piece and my engine around the field. I hope this will put me in good stead come selection time,” Philip said.

Rugby Australia Director of Rugby Scott Johnson added: “It will be great to have Matt back in Australia. He was a standout for the Wallabies last year and has grown as a player during his brief stint in France.

“Matt’s return will add further competition to our second-row stocks this year and as we keep on the journey to the Rugby World Cup in 2023.

It’s been an amazing year for 23-year-old Matt Philip and it culminated in a Wallabies debut against Japan in Yokohama. Hear from the latest to wear the Wallaby gold after he was presented with his first cap.

“Matt is one of a number of overseas-based Australians who are interested in returning home.

“Each has said they want to play in our Super Rugby competition and are desperate to pull on the Gold jersey.

“They know what we’re building ahead of the World Cup in France and the level of talent in this current group,” Johnson said.

The 26-year-old made his debut in 2016 for the Western Force before moving to the Rebels in 2018.

He would become Wallaby no.915 during his time at the club, coming off the bench for Australia’s match against Japan in Yokohama.