Welsh rugby might be in disarray, but the seaside city of Swansea has quickly become an outpost for Australian rugby.
Having already landed former Wallabies captain Liam Wright, 2023 World Cup member Lalakai Foketi, as well as Super Rugby regulars Ryan Smith and Lawson Creighton, the Ospreys have lured another familiar Australian rugby figure.
Marika Koroibete. Getty
Nine.com.au understands that Marika Koroibete has agreed to terms for a one-year contract with the respected United Rugby Championship outfit.
The two-time John Eales Medallist had been hunting a return to Super Rugby.
Koroibete was offered a modest wider squad contract with the Queensland Reds and held discussions with the Fijian Drua, but ultimately settled on continuing his career in the west of Wales on a one-year deal worth more than $200,000.
The 34-year-old’s move comes after finishing up his five-year tenure with Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights. The decorated Wallaby will be replaced at the Japanese heavyweight club by dual international Mark Nawaqanitawase.
The former NRL flyer played the last of his 63 Tests for the Wallabies in September 2024, where he broke his arm early in the 31-28 loss to the All Blacks and was eventually replaced mid-way through the second half.
Despite retiring from the Wallabies last October, it’s understood Koroibete still harbours a desire to return to the international game.
While he’s unlikely to be considered for a return by new Wallabies coach Les Kiss, the hard-hitting winger would become eligible to represent Fiji on the eve of next year’s World Cup in Australia.