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Israel Folau has revealed the chance to finally break the Waratahs’ long-standing Super Rugby drought played a key role in his re-committing to rugby for two more years.
The former rugby league star and AFL player signed a new two-year contract with the ARU and Waratahs on Thursday that will keep him with the code until the 2015 World Cup.
The Melbourne Storm grand final winner was linked to a return to the NRL with Canterbury, after rebuffing Parramatta’s advances last year, but has remained committed to the 15-a-side code after a stunning debut season.
And the Wallabies winger told Fox Sports’ Rugby HQ that a shot at winning a Super Rugby title with the Waratahs was a motivating factor.
“From day one with `Cheik’ (NSW coach Michael Cheika) I felt a great connection,” Folau said.
“I felt like we had a pretty tight group … I felt that straight away.
“And I feel like we can do a lot of great things in years to come.
In Cheika’s first season the Waratahs enjoyed an indifferent Super Rugby campaign to place third in the Australian conference and ninth overall.
But it was a far cry from the 2012 season which NSW ended on a record losing streak.
Folau said he and the Waratahs had plenty to build on from Cheika’s first season.
“As a group we can be happy with the season,” he said.
“But I’m sure we can do a lot better than that for the next few seasons.”
Folau’s decision to stick with rugby sets him up to exceed his achievements in rugby league, where he earned eight caps for Australia, including playing in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
The fullback for the Waratahs and winger for the Wallabies was named Australian Super Rugby rookie of the year and – despite limited opportunities with the ball – also impressed for the Wallabies, scoring three tries in his first five Tests.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.