Talented lock Josh Canham will not be lost to Australian rugby following the Melbourne' Rebels demised, with the 23-year-old to join Queensland Reds on a two-year deal.
One of the surprise omissions from Joe Schmidt's first Wallabies squad, Canham enjoyed a fine Super Rugby season as the Rebels made their maiden finals campaign.
But Rugby Australia's decision to wind up the franchise left the lock without a home, opening up the possibility he may be lost overseas.
But Canham has revealed he had instead been courting a move north to join Les Kiss' team, who finished a credible fifth in the coach's first year in charge.
"The Reds' style of play suits me. What I see is a fast, skilful game, especially with the way the forwards and backs connect. I look forward to being a part of it," Canham said.
"I talked to players and the coaches and all the things I've heard are that it's a good environment to work in."
Canham was left in tears after the Rebels' existence came to a halt following their quarterfinal loss to the Hurricanes. But having dealt with that disappointment, he is now committed to growing his game in the pursuit of a Wallabies call-up.
"It's a weird one. It's almost like having a little break-up because of the relationships and friendships I had at that club," Canham said.
"It's obviously sad but Australia's other Super Rugby teams are going to be better and also more competitive against Kiwi teams.
"I'll still be representing Victorian rugby in a sense. It doesn't matter where you play, you are representing... I've definitely got better in the tight stuff and I want to get better again next year."
Queensland General Manager Sam Cordingley said the Reds were thrilled to have Canham on board.
"There's a point of difference around his skillset. He's got a strong ball carry but he's also got a natural offload game," Cordingley said.
"The lineout is such an important part of the game. Josh is not only a very good lineout caller but a particularly strong reader in defensive lineouts.
"He's progressing as one of the best young locks in the country."