Rodda commits before Reds grudge match

Izack Rodda has confirmed his future is in Perth, just days before his Super Rugby Pacific grudge match against the Queensland Reds.

The Wallabies lock on Tuesday extended his contract with the Western Force until 2024 in a boost as the code attempts to retain its top talent.

Rodda, now 25, burst onto the scene in 2017 with the Queensland Reds to establish himself as one of the first-picked Wallabies.

But his sudden exit from Ballymore last year, after it was announced that Super Rugby players would have to accept a significant pay cut due to the COVID-19 pandemic, stung the Reds.

Coach Brad Thorn was riled by Rodda's decision to terminate his contract in order to join Lyon, and he expressed his displeasure again when reports emerged that the star lock was seeking a return to Australian rugby.

Rodda has thrived since his moving to Perth, excelling for the Wallabies last year and emerging as one of the key men behind the Force's bright start to the 2022 season.

His re-signing this week comes before his first encounter for competition points against his former side on Friday.

"I'm really excited to commit long term to the Wallabies and the Western Force," Rodda said.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed the last six months or so, firstly with the Wallabies last year and now with the Force in Super Rugby Pacific.

"It feels to me like both teams are building something special and that's something I'm looking forward to being a part of."

Rugby Australia boss Andy Marinos said the retention of a key player in a "specialist position" that commands big money overseas is a major coup.

"He plays in a specialist position and has chosen to stay in Australia to further his international career and help bring success to the Wallabies and the