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Force Youngster Eyes French Sojourn
Talented Western Force fly-half Scott Daruda is considering a contract offer to play with leading French club Clermont Auvergne.
The 21 year old fly-half was a foundation signing for the Western Force but his two seasons have yielded only six appearances after suffering a nerve injury in his neck against the Waratahs last season.
Since regaining full fitness, Daruda has been selected on the Force bench four times this season but has taken the field only once. The lack of opportunity as backup to Matt Giteau and James Hilgendorf appears to be a major factor in his pending decision.
A product of Nudgee College in Brisbane, Daruda joined the Reds Academy as a 15 y.o. and represented Qld and Australia ‘A’ Schoolboys before securing an ARU High Performance contract in 2005.
He made two appearances for the Reds before heading west.
Last season’s injury put him out of action for five months and meant a forced withdrawal from the Australian U21 squad.
The news of Daruda’s potential signing comes at an unfortunate time as Australian Rugby has recently attracted criticism for courting big name league players at the expense of nurturing and developing its emerging talent.
Big spending French clubs are looking to bolster their ranks after the Rugby World Cup and recent signings include George Gregan and Byron Kelleher.
Other All Blacks being targeted include Luke McAlister, Doug Howlett and Ali Williams.
Australian Rugby cannot afford to lose players of Daruda’s calibre, especially when significant funds have been invested in his career pathway over the last six years. He is youngster who has demonstrated flair and vision as a fly-half/centre in his limited opportunities.
Hopefully it is still not too late to secure his future in Australia.
- Gordon Bray