But the ACT Brumbies prospect has risen above adversity to put those doubts to rest as he prepares to join a group of props headlined by Wallabies veterans Allan Alaalatoa, James Slipper and Scott Sio.

The Canberra Times can reveal the 22-year-old prop has signed with the Brumbies for the 2022 Super Rugby season.

Kaihea was drafted into Dan McKellar's top squad via the club's academy earlier this year and made his Super Rugby AU debut before a knee injury derailed his season.

But Kaihea has returned for the Queanbeyan Whites in the John I Dent Cup as the finals race heats up leading into a clash with the fourth-placed Wests Lions at Campese Field on Saturday.

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"I've always had that doubt in my mind, that it wouldn't happen," Kaihea said when asked if he feared the injury could hurt his Super Rugby ambition.

"Especially after coming through an injury and trying to stay on the good side of weight. There's still a lot to learn, I'm just looking forward to what next year has for me.

"To be honest I'm still lost for words, very grateful, especially coming through the ranks and watching all of the great props here and learning of them.

"I'm just trying to get the most I can before they either part ways or retire, so it's pretty good. I'm still learning a lot. James Slipper, Scotty, Allan on the other side to give me comments on what I need to improve on."

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