ACT Brumbies recruit Will Miller says the chance to replace David Pocock convinced him to move to Canberra to take the next step in his rugby career.
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The Brumbies are expected to officially unveil Miller as a new recruit in the coming weeks.
But his looming defection from the NSW Waratahs has been known for some time and the openside flanker has declared his intent to fill the No. 7 jersey next season.
The Brumbies have a handful of roster spots to fill before they start pre-season training, with coach Dan McKellar still searching for a lock and an X-factor for his back line.
Miller started just two games for the Waratahs this season and was facing a future stuck behind Wallabies captain Michael Hooper if he stayed in Sydney.
The end of Pocock's Super Rugby career and tight competition in the Brumbies' back row led to Miller deciding to link with the Canberra side.
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Tom Cusack had the No. 7 duties for most of this season after Pocock injured his calf, with Miller to add extra competition for selection next year.
"I honestly didn't think I was going to leave the Waratahs until I first got approached by the Brumbies," Miller said.
"Following their approach, I discussed with both clubs what was best for my career.
"When I found out David Pocock was leaving, the decision became a no-brainer for me.
"I'll now have an opportunity to compete for a starting spot, against the guys they already have down there - something I would have never got at the Tahs with Michael Hooper there.
"The Brumbies had a really strong year this season and I'm excited to join their young core and build on their success for years to come."
Miller played 29 games for the Waratahs and said his time at the club made him a better player.
"This year wasn't as good as 2018 and was quite frustrating at times," Miller said.
"Before I put pen to paper, I had a couple of chats with Dan [McKellar] about how he liked his number seven to play," Miller said.
"He explained how his preferred style has numerous aspects that relate to my game.
"It was reassuring to know the coach likes the way I play and has an idea of how to best use my strengths to benefit the team - instead of just the general manager wanting me at the club."
Before joining the Brumbies, the Scots College alumni will be out to help Northern Suburb's assault on the Shute Shield.
"We're sitting in third at the moment, with only three points separating the top four sides," Miller said.
"It's a really close competition, with another four teams not far off the pace and pushing for finals spots too.
"Hopefully we can continue to build over the next couple of weeks and go into the finals with a wet sail."