Wallabies boost as Beale, Pocock sign new deals

The Wallabies on Friday received a pre-World Cup boost with David Pocock and Kurtley Beale renewing contracts to stay in Australian rugby.

Pocock has signed for one more year to the end of 2016, staying with the ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby, while Beale sealed a two-year extension to remain with the NSW Waratahs.

The deals follow fullback Israel Folau committing to a new three-year Waratahs contract last month.

Their decisions are a major plus for the Wallabies with a host of veterans such as Adam Ashley-Cooper, James Horwill, Will Genia and Sekope Kepu due to leave after the September-October World Cup for lucrative contracts overseas.

New Zealand are facing a similar exodus.

Back-rower Pocock said he was passionate about wearing the Wallabies jersey and representing his country.

"We are also very fortunate to be able to do what we do, and have the honour of representing so many along the way," he said.

"There have been some very special people who have helped me throughout the last two years, especially at the Brumbies.

"Without all of their support and faith in me, I wouldn't have this opportunity to continue my career and do what I love."

Beale, who has bounced back after being fined last year for being rude and disrespectful to Wallabies team management, said he wanted to be part of the national team for years to come.

"Wearing the gold jersey is the ultimate," he said.

"There are some special things happening here at the Wallabies and I am really enjoying being part of this group as it continues to build its identity over the next few seasons.

"It's been an amazing journey so far and I still believe I can achieve a lot more, both here at the Wallabies and at the Waratahs."

Australian players based abroad are unable to represent their country although the eligibility rules were relaxed earlier this year for senior players.

Those who have pulled on a Wallabies jersey more than 60 times and have held a professional contract with Australian rugby for at least seven years can now play abroad and for the national team.

Both Beale and Pocock depart on Saturday with their Wallabies team-mates for a Test against the USA in Chicago next weekend ahead of the Rugby World Cup which begins in England on September 18.
Source: AFP