Australian rugby sensation James O’Connor has signed a two-year deal with the Melbourne Rebels and the Australian Rugby Union.

The 20-year-old utility back will link with good friend and Wallabies’ teammate Kurtley Beale, who’s leaving the NSW Waratahs for the Rebels in 2012.

The star backline duo will dramatically strengthen a Rebels line-up that has struggled this season with the competition newcomers in last position on the Super Rugby table.