Vodacom Super Rugby
Ashley-Cooper to stay home
2013-03-22 07:47
Adam Ashley-Cooper (Gallo)
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Sydney - Wallabies and Waratahs back Adam Ashley-Cooper has re-signed to stay in Australia until after the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the Australian Rugby Union said on Friday.
He becomes the third player to commit to Australian Rugby and the Waratahs this week, following prop Sekope Kepu and scrum-half Nick Phipps.
Phipps has confirmed he is leaving the Melbourne Rebels for the Waratahs from next season.
Ashley-Cooper, who is with the Waratahs after appearing 78 times for the Brumbies between 2005 and 2011, said he resisted overtures to play overseas.
He cited unfinished business at Test level and in Super Rugby as primary reasons behind the decision to stay in Australia.
"I'm not done yet," he said. "I'd like another crack at the (2015) Rugby World Cup if I can. I wouldn't mind winning Super Rugby either.
"I think everyone is excited about what is coming up this year with the British and Irish Lions tour, but there's a World Cup not that far away now, and goals like the Rugby Championship and especially the Bledisloe Cup in between.
"I'd hate to finish my time with the Wallabies having not had the experience of winning the Bledisloe."
Ashley-Cooper, who turns 29 next week, has scored 23 tries in 77 internationals.