Rugby Transfers: Wallabies hopeful returns as World Cup admission made, England hotshot decides future and Junior All Black heads north

Northampton Saints back James Ramm will head Down Under at the end of the season to kickstart his hunt for Wallabies selection, Kepu Tuipulotu signs a new deal with Bath and Munster draft in former Junior All Black Ben O’Donovan.

Here is the latest round-up of all the rugby transfers, coach moves and contract renewals.

James Ramm outlines Wallabies hopes as back heads to Western Force

Northampton Saints outside back Ramm will join Super Rugby Pacific outfit Western Force at the start of next season, with a Wallabies call-up very much on his mind.

The Australian-native headed to Franklin’s Gardens in 2022 from the Force’s Aussie rivals the Waratahs, and has since made 68 appearances for the Saints. In that time, he has also helped them win a PREM Rugby title.

Commenting on his move, Ramm said: “I’m extremely excited to be joining the Force next season and relocating to Perth with my wife, Ally.”

“After talking to many of the boys and staff currently at the club, it is clear that there is a strong culture, a drive for success and a genuine belief in what this group can achieve. The opportunity to play a role in what the club is building is something that really excites me.

“The prospect of a home Rugby World Cup is incredibly motivating. Representing your country on home soil in front of family and friends, in my eyes, is the pinnacle of any Aussie rugby players career. But I know that selection starts with consistent performances at Super Rugby level, and that’s where my full attention will be.

“My immediate focus will be on contributing to a strong Super Rugby campaign and doing everything I can to help the team succeed.”

Also commenting, Force head coach, Simon Cron, added: “One of the areas for us to continue to grow our positional depth is in our back three. The fact they are explosive athletes means it’s a position you need coverage.

Nations Championship venues confirmed for Southern Series but it comes with a twist

“We have some great back three players but still need to add as we know backline depth is so important.

“James has aspirations to play for Australia and he wants to come home. Having known him before he left overseas, I was able to see his commitment to his craft, he will fit in at the Force seamlessly.”

England hotshot Kepu Tuipulotu recommits to Bath

Bath hooker Tuipulotu will remain in the Blue, Black and White until 2028, penning a new contract with the reigning PREM champions.

Want more from Planet Rugby? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for world-class coverage you can trust.

He becomes the latest player to recommit to the West Country outfit, following Ted Hill, Quinn Roux, Tom de Glanville and Tom Carr-Smith.

Commenting on his new deal, the England U20s and England A ace said: “Renewing my contract with Bath is a massive achievement for me and my family.

“Coming straight out of school and signing for Bath was a surreal feeling as these last two years I’ve been here I’ve learnt a lot.

“I’ve loved playing at The Rec and I’ve really made Bath my home.”

Bath head of rugby, Johann van Graan, added: “It’s great to see how Kepu has developed over the last few years. He is one of the most explosive players not just on the attack but also on the defensive side.

“It’s been special to see Kepu develop not only as a Bath player but as an England A player and an international U20 captain.”

Eddie Jones: Henry Pollock not a ‘grind’ player as he likens England star to Springboks legend

Munster swoop for ex-Junior All Black

Munster have added further depth to their scrum-half stock, with O’Donovan joining the club on an 18-month deal.

The 21-year-old represented the Junior All Blacks at the 2024 U20s World Championship and joins the URC side from Canterbury.

O’Donovan is immediately available for selection and could make his debut in their upcoming URC clash against Zebre.

“In player news, former New Zealand U20 international scrum-half Ben O’Donovan has joined the squad from Canterbury on an 18-month deal,” a Munster statement read.

“The 21-year-old lined out at the 2024 U20s World Championship having come up through the ranks at Linwood Rugby Club in Christchurch.”

READ MORE: Scott Robertson to face off with Rassie Erasmus as ex-All Blacks boss lands next coaching job