 Rogers has played at fly-half, centre and full-back for Australia |
Australia back Mat Rogers is to make a return to rugby league earlier than originally expected after being released from his union contract. The 31-year-old New South Wales Waratahs star had already said he would join league side the Gold Coast Titans after the 2007 World Cup in France.
But the Australian Rugby Union said that it had released him early on compassionate grounds.
Rogers' early move to Queensland comes after the death of his father.
Rogers switched codes in 2002 and has played 45 Tests for Australia.
He made his debut in the victory over France in June, 2002 and has played at full-back, centre and fly-half for the Wallabies.
 | The important thing now is to keep performing week in week out and to be one of the best players every week Waratahs flanker Phil Waugh |
Meanwhile, Australia flanker Phil Waugh has signed a two-year contract extension to keep him at the Waratahs until 2009.
The 27-year-old has played 55 Tests and led the Wallabies against Wales on their recent tour of Europe.
"I really enjoy playing where I am at the moment, for the Waratahs and Australia, and wanted to continue doing so," said Waugh.
Waugh has also been named as the Waratahs' Super 14 captain.
"It's terrific to be signed with Australian Rugby and the Waratahs and the important thing now is to keep performing week in week out and to be one of the best players every week," he added.
Waugh takes over the Waratahs captaincy from scrum-half Chris Whitaker, who has left to finish his career in Ireland with Leinster.
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