He hasn’t played a Test in more than two years, but Brumbies hooker Lachlan Lonergan is still on the national radar after being handed a top-up deal by Rugby Australia.

Despite scoring the match-winner against Wales in Cardiff in his last Test in late 2022, Lonergan was looked over by Eddie Jones in 2023, before a devastating knee-injury cruelled his hopes of adding to his eight Test caps in 2024 under Joe Schmidt.

Nonetheless, it’s understood that the Brumbies rake is the fourth Australian hooker to currently be on a national top-up along with Matt Faessler, Dave Porecki and Brumbies teammate Billy Pollard.

Lachlan Lonergan. (Photo: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Incumbent Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa is technically only contracted to the Western Force, but The Roar understands part of his contract is being covered by Rugby Australia. It comes after the governing body recently struck up a repatriation deal for foriegn-based Australians as sweeteners for the Force and Rebels.

Paenga-Amosa’s Force teammate Nic Dolly and Reds rake Josh Nasser, who made his Wallabies debut last year, are both only contracted by their respective Super Rugby franchises.

The depth in the position, including the four nationally contracted hookers, shows how much Rugby Australia have prioritised having strength in the position.

Comparatively, RA has very few centres on national top-ups.

Lachlan Lonergan goes over against Wales in late 2022 to seal the Wallabies’ come-from-behind win in Cardiff. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)

Lonergan’s retention is a good bit of business for the Brumbies, especially with Billy Pollard yet to recommit for the ACT franchise.

A proven finisher, who is quick and agile around the park, Lonergan’s throw is reliable while he’s also capable of getting over the ball.

The 25-year-old, who was part of the strong Junior Wallabies group in 2019 alongside Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson and Noah Lolesio, said he was thrilled to be staying in Canberra.

“I’m stoked to be remaining in Canberra for two more years, a place where I grew up and love representing as a Brumby.”

“I’m really motivated to continue to work hard on the field and earn more opportunities to represent my club, and hopefully my country, with some major milestones on the horizon in Australian rugby.”

Rugby Australia director of high performance Peter Horne said it was another positive piece of news heading into the World Cup.

“Lachlan’s a strong example of the Australian and Canberra pathways and his re-signing is a positive for supporters of Australian rugby,” Horne said.

“It’s been pleasing to see him getting consistent game time after recovering from a significant injury last year and we look forward to seeing him continue to build throughout the Super Rugby Pacific season.”