Rugby: Mortlock signs three-year deal with Rebels

MELBOURNE - Former Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock has agreed to a three-year deal with new Super Rugby team Melbourne Rebels.

Mortlock, the highest point-scorer in Super Rugby history, will join the new franchise for their debut season in 2011 after 13 seasons with the Brumbies.

``Stirling is yet another addition to our growing team of players with strong leadership skills,' said Melbourne coach Rod Macqueen.

``The opportunity to play out his career in Melbourne, and not overseas, is great for both Australian rugby and Stirling as he helps us build the foundations of the new club.'

Mortlock, 32, captained the Brumbies to the 2004 Super 12 title, a year after replacing George Gregan as captain.

The 80-Test veteran will also aim to extend his international career to next year's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Mortlock had been weighing up whether to stay in Australia or finish his career with a lucrative overseas contract.

- AAP