Australian Rugby
Waugh fears being forced abroad
Scrum.com
January 11, 2009
Australia's Phil Waugh attempts to break a tackle during the clash with Italy at Stadio Euganeoin Padua, Italy  on November 8, 2008.
Waugh in action during the narrow victory over Italy on Australia's recent end of year tour © Getty Images
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Wallabies flanker Phil Waugh fears his days in the green and gold of Australia could be numbered as he seeks a new long-term deal.

The Waratahs' skipper, who led the side to last year's Super 14 final, is off contract with New South Wales and the Australian Rugby Union in 2010 and would like to agree a new deal.

However he is aware that decision lies with Wallabies coach Robbie Deans and ARU high performance manager David Nucifora who may opt to look to the future and thus open the door to a potential move overseas for the 29-year-old.

"Over the next period of time I'll look at my options and see where I sit. Robbie Deans' plans are obviously very important to my future,'' Waugh told the Daily Telegraph. "I really enjoy playing in Australia and playing for the Waratahs and playing in Sydney. The SFS is my favourite ground and I've been here 10 years. Once I've got a good understanding of what they're thinking, I'll be able to make some more informed decisions.

"Every year could be your last. It's all a matter of form and injuries. I feel like I've got a lot of rugby left in me. I want to play until I feel I'm no longer competitive at the top level. Right now I feel fine.''

Nucifora expects Waugh to be a continued part of the Wallabies plans moving forward and intends to open talks in the next month with the financial terms set to be the key to any agreement.

"We'll start talking to guys who are off contract from now onwards and Phil's certainly on that list. He's still very valuable,'' Nucifora said.

Brumbies flanker and Waugh's long-time adversary Smith is also off-contract.

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