Kefu commits to Wallabies
December 14, 2001

Wallaby star Toutai Kefu has ended speculation about his playing future by signing a two-year deal with the Australian Rugby Union, ensuring he would be available for the World Cup in 2003.

The 27-year-old had earlier threatened to take up a lucrative contract to play exclusively in Japan if he was not offered a more substantial deal that recognised his status as one of the country's top players.

The long serving No 8 said the honour of playing for the Wallabies was the determining factor in his decision to stay in Australian rugby.

"The Wallabies have achieved so much and it was always hard to imagine not being a part of that team," he said. "I am very happy with the deal and I'm glad to put the negotiation behind me."

Kefu was one of the few Wallabies to come away from the recent tour of Europe with his reputation intact.

ARU general manager of high performance Jeff Miller said the ARU was determined to keep Kefu. "We are thrilled that Kef has put Australia first," he said.

"We obviously have enormous respect for his talents and he will be a key player in our bid to retain the Rugby World Cup when it's played here in Australia in 2003."

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