Larkham fears player exodus
February 21, 2002

Wallaby flyhalf Stephen Larkham says Australia could face a difficult couple of years after the 2003 World Cup with a mass exodus of players to Europe expected.

The 27-year-old is the only high profile Wallaby to remain unsigned for next year's event in Australia and New Zealand, but is expected to finalise negotiations soon.

However, he is not expected to sign a contract for longer than two years, with the lure of a lucrative deal in Europe or Japan sure to bob up following the World Cup.

Wallaby and Reds No 8 Toutai Kefu recently rejected a huge offer to play in Japan, but like Larkham will be looking elsewhere following the World Cup.

"At this stage it looks like a lot of players will be leaving after the World Cup," Larkham told The Australian newspaper. "It could be quite difficult for Australian rugby the year after next.

"It's a trend at the moment because there is so much money overseas. Players are well aware that rugby doesn't last forever and they want to make the most of it.

"I know players can play quite comfortably into their 30s, but I think two (World Cups) will be enough for me. At some stage you've got to look at the rest of your life and concentrate on where you're going."

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