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Wednesday, 11 September, 2002, 08:53 GMT 09:53 UK
Roff back with Brumbies
Joe Roff in action for Australia against England
Roff faces a battle to regain his Wallabies place
Joe Roff has returned to the ACT Brumbies in a bid to win back his place in the Australia side in time for next year's Rugby World Cup.

Winger Roff re-signed for the 2003 and 2004 Super 12 series after spending a year playing in France for Biarritz.

The 26-year-old decided to take a break from the pressures of international rugby but said his year off had helped him rediscover his hunger to play at the highest level.


I want to be part of the World Cup and that's only going to happen if I produce the goods for the Brumbies
Joe Roff

"Everyone knows what's on offer in 2003 and for me it starts with the Brumbies," said Roff, who helped the Canberra-based team win the Super 12 last year.

"Some consistent form at provincial level is my first goal."

Despite a brilliant career which has included a World Cup winner's medal and 72 Test caps, Roff is no certainty to win back his place in the Australia side.

The Wallabies already had Ben Tune, Andrew Walker and Stirling Mortlock vying for places before Roff took his sabbatical.

And they signed three former rugby league international wingers in Mat Rogers, Wendell Sailor and Lote Tuqiri while he was away.

"I've noticed that since I've been gone the ARU (Australian Rugby Union) has signed a few new players in my position," said Roff.

"My view is that it's good for the game and good for Australian rugby. Competition will bring out the best in all of us.

"I want to be part of it (the 2003 Rugby World Cup) and the only way that's going to happen is if I produce the goods for the Brumbies."

Roff, who won the French championship with Biarritz, has spent the past three months honeymooning in Greece.

And he insists he does not regret his decision to play in Europe.

"I wouldn't swap the experience or the memories," he said.

"It was much more than just the rugby... living in another country, making new friends and immersing yourself in a new culture.

"It was great fun, the sort of experience that makes you appreciate rugby and everything it has to offer."

See also:

11 Sep 02 | International
09 Jun 02 | European
16 May 02 | Rugby Union
26 May 01 | Rugby Union
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