 Tuqiri had offers from league and union clubs |
Australia winger Lote Tuqiri has agreed a new contract which will keep him in rugby union until at least the end of the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Tuqiri turned down offers to return to rugby league to stay with the Wallabies and his club side the NSW Waratahs.
He also rebuffed approaches from the ACT Brumbies and the Queensland Reds.
"The Rugby World Cup experience was an amazing one for me last year and obviously France in 2007 represents an ambition," said Tuqiri.
Wallabies coach Eddie Jones believes Tuqiri has the potential to become one of rugby's greatest outside backs.
"When you consider the impact he has made on the game in such a short time, there is no doubting his quality," said Jones.
Waratahs coach Ewen McKenzie said: "It's good to have the decision out of the way so Lote can concentrate on what he does best for Australia and New South Wales.
"It's really pleasing to see him commit long term."
Tuqiri played five Tests for Australia's rugby league side before switching codes to union at the end of 2002.
He had been linked with a return to the 13-man code with National Rugby League hopefuls the Gold Coast.
MMIX
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