The New York Ironworkers have re-signed loose forward Joe Basser for the 2023 Major League Rugby season. Though raised in Australia, the 23-year-old is Manhattan-born and remains US-eligible.
Basser came through the Melbourne Rebels age-grade system before joining New York ahead of the 2022 campaign. In his first MLR season he played a key supporting role, making 14 appearances including a substitute appearance in the Championship Final win over Seattle.
Equally adept across the back row, Basser should see increased playing time in 2023. He joins Ben Bonasso and Brendon O’Connor as confirmed loose forward returnees. Pago Haini is also set to return from a long-term injury, while acquisition Brad Tucker can play lock or blindside flanker.