ALBURY Thunder has landed a major coup, signing Queensland Cup star Shannon Rupapere.
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In one of the biggest signings the Border club has had in recent seasons, the 25-year old will add firepower to an already potent backline.
It comes as Trenton King joins rival Kangaroos.
The representative prop has aligned himself with the Wagga club after just one season with the Thunder.
King was touted as an ideal replacement following Mitch Davis’ departure but didn’t last long on the Border.
The deal was expected to be confirmed on Thursday night following weeks of speculation.
Kangaroos captain-coach Adam Hall declined to comment until a contract was signed but wasn’t expecting any issue.
King will add to the strong Tullibigeal Lakes United connection at Kangaroos.
Jayden Kelly signed off to return from the Group 20 club while Chris Jordan and Troy Barby have come across in recent years.
The Kangaroos have also picked up another former Shark in Jack Kelly.
The young front rower played junior representative football while in Lake Cargelligo and is looking to make his mark at his new club.
“There will be a few of them (TLU players),” Hall said.
Kangaroos have also picked up the versatile Luke Frost.
Frost has been playing in Perth but linked with the club due to his ties with Hall.
With the options to play in the centres, front row or centre row Frost will be another valuable addition.
However he is doubtful to make an appearance at the West Wyalong Knockout after picking up an injury.
“We should be close to full strength,” Hall said.
“We had one bloke (Frost) do his hamstring at training but he might be right to go.”
Hall thought the timing of the time-honoured event works even better for the club this season.
“With the season two weeks early now it works in with the plans a bit easier,” he said.
Kangaroos will also have a trial on March 19 but an opponent hasn’t been confirmed yet.
Meanwhile, Kangaroos have lost Eddie Lagaali to cross-town rivals Brothers.
After making the permanent switch from rugby union last year, Lagaali will join his brother Jason with the Brethren.
Brothers captain-coach Ben Black is looking forward to having the damaging pair in the one side.
