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In a huge endorsement of the Waratahs’ program under Darren Coleman, Wallabies forward Jed Holloway is set to turn down riches overseas to stay in Australian rugby.
Holloway had attracted attention in France, but it’s understood the powerful forward will forgo more than $200,000 to stay at the Waratahs on a new two-year deal with the Sydney-based franchise.
It’s a huge show of faith to the Waratahs and Australian rugby, who often get criticised for losing players overseas but Holloway’s decision to stay beyond the World Cup, particularly with new Wallabies coach Eddie Jones joining and selection far from certain, is a win for the game Down Under.
It’s also a great development for the Waratahs ahead of their Super Rugby opener against the ACT Brumbies on Friday, February 24.
Jed Holloway of the Waratahs takes a lineout. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)
Holloway, 30, played 10 Tests for the Wallabies last year in one of the storylines of the season.
A photo of him sitting on the field playing with his child after celebrating a win on debut against Argentina in Mendoza went viral.
Just like Scott Boland completing a fairytale debut at the MCG and playing with his children on the centre wicket with the Ashes, Holloway’s journey to the Wallabies was far from straightforward.
The versatile forward, who can play in the second-row and back-row, was highly regarded going through the pathways but didn’t push on like many expected until last year.
But after burying the hatchet with Coleman, who got off on the wrong foot years earlier in the National Rugby Championship, the duo thrived at the Waratahs in 2022 and Holloway caught the eye of former Wallabies coach Dave Rennie.
“It’s something I thought would never really come a couple of years ago, or even last year, so to get this opportunity is huge,” Holloway said ahead of his Test debut.
Jed Holloway grew with each passing Test for the Wallabies and is set to turn down riches in France to stay in Australian rugby. Photo: Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images
It’s believed Jones, who joined the Wallabies last month and has yet to select a squad, gave Holloway the tick of approval.
With great hands at the line, height and size, Holloway is a huge cog in the Waratahs’ roster and his versatility and agility has him well-placed to make Jones’ 33-man World Cup squad.
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.