Palu staying in Australia

[Jehna]

Palu staying in Australia

February 18, 2008

WYCLIFF Palu, the Australian number eight, has resisted overseas offers and agreed a new two-year deal with the Australian Rugby Union and NSW, the ARU has confirmed.

Palu, man of the match in the Waratahs' opening Super 14 win over the Wellington Hurricanes last weekend, will remain with Australian rugby until at least the end of the 2010 season, the statement said.

“The ARU is very happy that Wycliff has decided to stay in Australia after fielding larger offers to play offshore,'' ARU High Performance manager Pat Howard said.

“We know there were genuinely significant deals placed before him and his decision to continue playing in Australia proves the lure of the Wallabies jumper is still a major attraction for our leading players.

“He has the chance in the next couple of years to really establish himself as a major name on the world stage.''

Palu, 25, who was a member of Australia's team at last year's World Cup in France, said he has a lot to offer the Wallabies and Waratahs.

“I'm not just an impact player anymore. I've worked hard on my fitness so I can contribute for the full 80 minutes,'' he said.

“I had offers to leave but in the end staying with Australian rugby is the best option for me on and off the field,'' said the 17-Test forward.

Agence France-Presse

[slomo]

good news allround, cliffy is a quality player......

[TOCC]

his a good player, but i would rather see rocky elsom stay then palu