The NSW Waratahs are delighted to announce hooker David Porecki has re-committed to Australian Rugby until at least the end of 2026.
Already contracted until the end of this year, the two-year extension will see the 31-year-old look to add to his 19 appearances for his country, having made his Wallabies debut against England in 2022.
Since earning his first Test cap, Porecki has become a key pillar of the Wallabies, earning a Rugby World Cup call-up last year where he became the 88th Australian captain after leading the side in three of their four pool fixtures in the absence of the injured Will Skelton.
Such is Porecki’s influence on the national team, he was one of just two players, alongside Rob Valetini, to start in every Test for the Wallabies in 2023.
A Manly junior in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Porecki followed an unconventional path to Wallaby gold.
Having played just the one Super Rugby game for the Waratahs in 2015, Porecki moved to the UK, where he spent five seasons in the English Premeriship with Saracens (2016) and London Irish (2019).
He returned to Australia and the NSW Waratahs ahead of the 2020 Super Rugby season, with injury cruelling his chances of an earlier debut for his country.
Known for his accuracy at the lineout, strength in the scrum, and his leadership quality, Porecki’s re-commitment is a major positive for Australian Rugby.
Wallabies and NSW Waratahs hooker David Porecki said: “I couldn’t be happier to re-sign with the NSW Waratahs and Australian Rugby for a further two years.
“Since returning home I’ve been able to achieve some of my personal goals, but I know I’ve got plenty more to contribute and will continue working hard to be part of successful teams.
“I’d like to thank those at Rugby Australia and the Waratahs for backing me and I’ll be doing all that I can to repay that faith over the next few years.”
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said: “To have a player and person of David’s calibre re-commit long-term is hugely positive for Australian Rugby.
“Dave’s been a consistent performer for the Wallabies since returning home and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to represent his state and country with pride over the next three years.”
NSW Waratahs Coach Darren Coleman said: “For David to have started in every Test in 2023 and finish the World Cup campaign as Captain speaks volumes to the value he can add to a playing group.
“He’s measured, mature and has a drive for perfection. He puts his body on the line week in, week out.
“David is also a keeper of standards in our group and is a great mentor to the other hookers in our program. It’s a great signing for the Tahs.”
David Porecki
Position: Hooker
Height: 185cm
Weight: 108kg
Born: 23 October, 1992
Place of birth: Sydney, Australia
Test debut: 2022 v England in Perth
Test caps: 19
Super Rugby debut: 2015 v Cheetahs in Bloemfontein
Super Rugby caps: 36
