Isaac Kailea says his two-year contract extension with the NSW Waratahs and Australian Rugby is a testament to the faith that has been put in him, and he is determined to repay it by growing as a player and pushing for higher honours.
Speaking after the NSW Waratahs’ 'Captain's Run' on Friday on the eve of their Round 6 Super Rugby Pacific derby against the ACT Brumbies on Saturday, Kailea said: “It just shows how much faith they have in me, and it’s something I want to repay. It’s good security for me, but I know I can’t just rest on that.
“I want to improve, I want to get back to the Wallabies, and I want to get some wins for the Tahs. Those are my main goals for the next couple of years.”
Kailea has been named on the bench for Saturday night’s blockbuster clash against the ACT Brumbies at Allianz Stadium, Moore Park in Sydney.
He is eager to make an impact in the game as he looks to solidify his role in the team.
The NSW Waratahs are coming off a disappointing loss against the Queensland Reds last week, and Kailea acknowledges that defensive improvements have been a key focus leading into this weekend.
“As a team, we were all quite disappointed with the result, but there weren’t any big, drastic changes to make,” Kailea said.
“It’s just about slight tweaks—making sure we’re switched on in defence and bringing that physical edge.
“We all want to defend hard and make it tough for teams to score against us.”
Physicality will be a defining factor in the NSW Waratahs’ showdown with the ACT Brumbies. Kailea is up for the challenge of going up against a formidable forward pack.
“Physicality is one of the biggest parts of my game,” Kailea said.
“I’ll try and carry hard, and if someone runs at me, I’ll try and tackle hard as well. If I can do both of those, then I think I’ll go a long way to having a good impact in the game.”
Kailea is no stranger to coming off the bench, a role he has played at various points in his career.
While he is eager to push for a starting position, he remains focused on contributing in any way he can.
“It’s a role I’m quite used to throughout my rugby career,” Kailea said.
“I definitely want to be pushing for that starting spot, but there’s a fair bit of competition in our position.
“Prop is one of the tougher spots to crack in our squad, but if I can provide that impact off the bench that the coaches want, then I’ll be happy.”
The NSW Waratahs will also be boosted by the return of powerhouse back-rower Langi Gleeson, a key figure in both attack and defence.
“He’s massive for the team,” Kailea said. “He’s one of our best ball carriers and always brings something—whether it’s a big hit or a strong carry.
“When he’s going forward, it’s a good sign for us.”
One of Kailea’s personal matchups on Saturday night could see him go head-to-head with Brumbies star Rob Valetini, a player he holds in high regard.
“Bobby’s a good player—no doubt about it,” Kailea said.
“He’s a big boy, and you don’t want to give him too much time to build up steam.
“If we can limit his impact, we can put ourselves in a good position to get the result we want.”
When: at 7.35 pm (AEDT) Saturday 22 March 2025
Where: Allianz Stadium, Moore Park, Sydney
To purchase your tickets, click HERE
The game will be televised LIVE on 9Gem and Stan Sport - The Home of Rugby
