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THE Brumbies are confident of retaining Wallabies openside flanker George Smith, but seem resigned to losing former Test outside back Mark Gerrard.
Smith, arguably the most skilful forward to play for the Wallabies, is considering lucrative offers from French clubs.
He is expected to make a decision about his future after the Brumbies return from their three-week tour of South Africa. "I'm reasonably confident George will continue to play for the Wallabies and the Brumbies for another couple of years at least," Brumbies chief executive Andrew Fagan said.
"He is weighing up overseas offers, but the enjoyment and desire to play in Australia is pretty strong."
Fagan was less sure about Gerrard remaining in Canberra. Gerrard has played 23 Tests since his debut against Italy in 2005, but he was overlooked by new Wallabies coach Robbie Deans last year.
If Gerrard cannot secure an ARU top-up to his Super 14 contract, it would be an incentive for him to play overseas.
Gerrard has played well this season, particularly in the Brumbies' home games.
"Mark is looking at some overseas options," Fagan said. "There is a good chance he will go. Whether he stays or goes, he has given us outstanding service." Meanwhile, Smith has been named captain for the Brumbies' opening game of their South African tour against the Lions in Johannesburg tomorrow (AEDT).
Smith will also tie former Wallabies hooker Jeremy Paul as the third-most-capped Brumbies player in his 112th Super rugby appearance.
With Stephen Hoiles injured, coach Andy Friend had a choice between Smith and Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock, who stepped down from the ACT side's leadership role this season.
While Smith is a reluctant captain, he leads by example and Mortlock will provide leadership anyway.
"George is a good option for us as captain," Friend said. "Stirling offers a lot because of the personality he is. He is in a happy spot at the moment so rather than change that, I thought I'd give more responsibility to George."
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au...015651,00.html