Waratahs sign Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps for 2027 season

The NSW Waratahs have turned to their championship-winning past in a bid to revive their Super Rugby Pacific fortunes, confirming the return of veteran playmakers Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps for the 2027 season. The duo, who last played together for the Sydney-based club in 2019, signed one-year deals to rejoin the team where they both began their professional careers.

Foley, 36, and Phipps, 37, were instrumental in guiding the Waratahs to their sole Super Rugby title in 2014. Their recruitment comes after the club missed the finals in the 2025 and 2026 seasons and is currently without a head coach following Dan McKellar's departure in June. Waratahs director of high performance BJ Mather said the pair's hunger to contribute and their understanding of the club's culture were key factors in their return. He described them as outstanding professionals who can help shape the next chapter for the team.

Both players expressed enthusiasm about coming home. Foley, who has spent the past five seasons with Japan's Kubota Spears, said he felt lucky to finish his career where it started and was excited by the athletic ability within the current squad. Phipps, who played for London Irish...