Rugby: Western Force re-sign giant lock

2.08m tall lock Richie Arnold. Photo / Getty

The Western Force have re-signed the identical twin of Wallabies lock Rory Arnold - and Richie is just as imposing in build as his brother.

After a season plagued with injury since joining the Force last November, the 208cm, 125kg giant is on track to return to the field in 2017 to allow for a possible Super Rugby debut.

"At the moment, the body feels really good," he said.

"It's been a little over three months since the shoulder reconstruction so, come pre-season, I'll be able to do most of the running and work myself into the contact training."

A lock, like his brother, Richie could be a late bloomer into Super Rugby after signing the one-year deal.

Rory, only debuting with the Brumbies in 2015, has already gone on to play six Tests for the Wallabies since earlier this year.

"There is a great Afrikaans saying which is 'vroeg ryp vroeg vrot'," Western Force coach David Wessells said.

"It means 'if you ripen early, then you rot early'.

"He has all the attributes to be a world-class player. He's a very big man, he's aggressive and, most importantly, he really wants this opportunity, so we are looking forward to getting a full season out of him."

The Force also confirmed the re-signing of former Australian schoolboys lock and national under-20s representative Matt Philip on a one-year deal.

- AAP