Shibasaki was the headline of a double-signing announcement on Thursday morning when the Bears also landed the services of Fijian Jope Rauqe, who this year represented the New South Wales Under-19 Origin side.
28-year-old Shibasaki had a 2025 season stacked with career highlights, scoring two tries in the Brisbane Broncos' 2025 Grand Final win over Melbourne Storm as well as attaining series victories with both Queensland (State of Origin) and Australia (Ashes tour of England).
He has had a comparatively quiet year in 2026 with just three tries and no try assists in 13 appearances, compared with 18 and six respectively in 2025, as the Broncos go through a tough period on the field.
But it is that potential displayed last year, as well as his strong defensive skillset, that had Meninga tracking down Shibasaki's signature all year.
Meninga described him on Thursday morning as "a Test player who will add a new dimension to our backline. He is large, strong and has big game experience that will be invaluable.
“Most important of all, Gehamat has the character and personality that the Perth Bears are looking for.
“He has persevered for a long time and ultimately that led to success. I’m excited to welcome him and his family as part of our squad.”
Shibasaki told the media that working under a coach like Meninga was difficult to pass up.
“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to play for the Perth Bears in their first season,” he continued.
“I believe in Mal’s vision for the club and I’m excited about the opportunity to play for him and the club next year.
“The squad is shaping up well and I’m confident we can make an immediate impact.”
His deal is reportedly in the vicinity of $1million spread across two years and will see him as a starting centre alongside Melbourne Storm's Nick Meaney.
19-year-old Rauqe made his Test debut for Fiji last year in Group B of the Pacific Championships and currently plays in the Ron Massey Cup, the NSW second division, for the Bulldogs.
He also got a taste of first grade football as part of the NRL Pre-Season Challenge squad earlier this year.
“Jope is an outstanding prospect who has incredible natural talent and ability,” Meninga said of Rauqe.
“He is tall, athletic and an absolute try scorer. He will bring energy and excitement to our squad and can make a real impact”.
Read: Are Perth Bears already falling behind in the race to be competitive?
Aaron Murphy has been with Flashscore since 2018 and, as the founding editor of the Australian newsdesk, has reported on-site at several major events in Melbourne including the Australian Open, State of Origin, A-League, NBL and international cricket. You can read his pieces here and contact him on X or LinkedIn.
