mens
super-rugby-pacific
ACT Brumbies Coach Stephen Larkham has doubled down on the description of “naturally gifted” Kye Oates, who has been awarded the Promising Newcomer Super Rugby Pacific season with a new two-year contract until the end of 2028.
Larkham first labeled Oates as a “naturally gifted” athlete Australia Sedmice was named in the Brumbies squad for the first time. Oates made his debut for the Brumbies against Queensland Red in the fourth round and made two more appearances that season.
Oates started on the wing in those three appearances, including the matches against Fijian Drua and the Chiefs, before suffering a season-ending injury. The 27-year-old also played the full 80 in each of those matches before suffering a season-ending injury.
The utility back was playing for the Brumbies Runners when he suffered an ankle injury that required surgery and ended his rookie season. But Oates is now eyeing a return to Super Rugby Pacific next season after agreeing a new contract with the club.
“I’m really excited to stay at the Brumbies and continue to work with the coaches and caliber of players we have here,” Oates said.
“The outside linebackers are a great group to learn from, and every day around those guys is only going to help me improve my game.
“The injury was frustrating, especially after trying Super Rugby this year, but I’m working hard with the medical and high performance staff to get back to my best. The focus is on being ready for 2027.”
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham added: “Kye is a promising player with a valuable skill set, and he has a really positive impact on the group,” Larkham said.
“He is a naturally gifted athlete with good acceleration, excellent footwork and the ability to recognize space and create opportunities for those around him.
“He is working hard to get back to his best in 2027 and we are excited to see what he can bring to the team next season.”
Oates made his 2022 Australian Men’s Sevens debut at the fan-favourite Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens and recently earned representative honors with the First Nations & Pasifika XV against the British & Irish Lions last year.
