Hanson, Stirzaker among four Rebels re-signings

Melbourne Rebels hooker James Hanson and captain Nic Stirzaker are among four re-signings for the Super Rugby team.

Stirzaker and Hanson signed on for the 2018 season along with Steve Cummins and Fereti Sa’aga, the Rebels announced on Monday.

The news comes despite uncertainty over the Rebels’ future, with the club facing the axe from Super Rugby.

“Our squad for 2018 and beyond continues to take shape with four highly respected and quality individuals who will contribute to the Melbourne Rebels,” Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson said.

“Nic, James, Steve and Fereti have all significantly contributed positively to the club on and off the field during a challenging season.”

BREAKING NEWS | The Rebels have re-signed skipper Nic Stirzaker, James Hanson, Steve Cummins and Fereti Sa'aga for 2018. #OurRebels

— Melbourne Rebels (@MelbourneRebels) July 3, 2017

Hanson’s re-signing is the most notable for the Rebels, with the former Queensland Red having played for the Wallabies 12 times.

The Rebels have won just one of 13 matches this Super Rugby season to be bottom of the Australian Conference.