Jordan Uelese, born on January 24, 1997, is a professional rugby union player from New Zealand who represents Australia. He plays as a hooker for the Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and has been capped for the Australian national team, known as the Wallabies.
Uelese began his rugby career in Wellington, New Zealand, playing for the Oriental Rongotai club. He later moved with his family to Melbourne, Australia, at the age of eleven. He attended St. Kevin's College in Melbourne and initially played as a loose forward before transitioning to the hooker position.
His talent and potential were recognized early on, and Uelese was selected for the Australia Under 20 team in consecutive years. He represented Australia at the World Rugby Championships in Manchester in 2016 and in Georgia in 2017.
During this time, he also played for the Rebels Under-20 side in the National Championships.
In 2017, Uelese made his Super Rugby debut for the Melbourne Rebels in a match against the Blues. Despite the team's loss, his performance caught the attention of the national team selectors.
In September of the same year, Uelese earned his first cap for Australia in a match against the Springboks, which ended in a draw.
Uelese's strength and accurate throwing abilities impressed Wallabies coach Michael Cheika, leading to his inclusion in the Wallabies squad for the Rugby Championship.
Despite having limited Super Rugby experience at the time, Uelese showcased his potential and made a significant impact in the national team.
In November 2017, Uelese committed to Australian Rugby until 2020, solidifying his place in the squad and reflecting his breakout year. He set his sights on the 2019 Rugby World Cup and was selected as part of the 31-man Wallabies squad for the tournament held in Japan.
Uelese played in all five of the Wallabies' matches as a reserve hooker, demonstrating his versatility and valuable contributions to the team.
Known for his strength, accuracy in the lineout, and potential for growth, Uelese continues to develop as a prominent hooker in Australian rugby.
With his impressive performances at both the domestic and international levels, he has established himself as a key player for the Melbourne Rebels and the Wallabies.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Uelese has been named in the training squad for Australia.
KG(07/07/2023)
Career
 |
Montpellier Loosehead Prop |
2024 - present |
 |
Australia U20's Hooker |
2016 - 2017 |
 |
Melbourne Rising Hooker |
2015 - 2019 |
 |
Australia Hooker |
2017 - 2024 |
 |
Melbourne Rebels Hooker |
2017 - 2024 |
