Simon Benitez Cruz

Forged in the Argentine forward tradition, Simon Benitez Cruz brings physicality and breakdown intensity to the back row of the Newcastle Red Bulls. Born on 6 September 1999, the Argentina-developed loose forward is known for his work rate around the field, his willingness to commit to contact and his appetite for the unglamorous duties that define quality back-row play. In the English Premiership his combative style suits a competition that prizes physical edge, and he offers Newcastle a ball-carrying and defensive presence in the loose. Benitez Cruz looks to make his mark at the breakdown, slowing opposition ball and supporting his side's carriers, while contributing energy in defence. Having come through the Argentine system, he carries the hard-nosed forward mentality associated with rugby from his homeland into the demands of the English top flight. For the Red Bulls he represents a durable, committed option in the back row, the kind of forward a side leans on for consistency in the collisions and reliability across the eighty minutes.