Australia
Pocock and Beale sign new Australian rugby deals
ESPN Staff
August 28, 2015
Pocock said he was proud to be representing the Wallabies for another year © Getty Images
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The Wallabies have received a pre-World Cup boost with David Pocock and Kurtley Beale renewing contracts to stay in Australian rugby. Former national skipper Pocock, 27, has signed for one more year to the end of 2016, staying with the Brumbies in Super Rugby.

Utility back Beale, 26, will remain at the NSW Waratahs for two more years after agreeing a new deal to the end of 2017.

The signings announcements on Friday came on the eve of the pair's departure with the Wallabies for the United States for a training camp and Test match against USA ahead of the World Cup in Britain starting on September 18.

Pocock made a fantastic return to Super Rugby about back-to-back knee reconstruction and was awarded three of the Brumbies' highest honours, receiving Brumbies' Player of the Year, Fan Favourite and Best Forward. His triumphant return was capped off on Thursday night when he received Super Rugby Player of the Year at the John Eales Medal. He was also just 25 points shy of back-to-back John Eales Medal winner Israel Folau.

The 27-year-old said he was happy ad proud to continue representing the Wallabies.

"I am very passionate about the Wallabies jersey and representing this country," said Pocock. "We are also very fortunate to be able to do what we do, and have the honour of representing so many along the way. There have been some very special people who have helped me throughout the last two years, especially at the Brumbies. Without all of their support and faith in me, I wouldn't have this opportunity to continue my career and do what I love."

Wallabies team-mate Beale also celebrated a strong season, becoming the third-highest point scorer in NSW history and also earned his 50th Cap for the Wallabies after coming off the bench against Argentina.

"Wearing the gold jersey is the ultimate," said Beale. "There are some special things happening here at the Wallabies and I am really enjoying being part of this group as it continues to build its identity over the next few seasons. It's been an amazing journey so far and I still believe I can achieve a lot more, both here at the Wallabies and at the Waratahs.

"I know I can only do that through a lot of hard work and with the help of my teammates. It's now also my responsibility to help make them better players and continue to strive for their best. If I can do everything I can to help make them better players that is the ultimate satisfaction for me."

© AAP

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