Veteran Wallabies’ playmaker Matt Giteau has concluded weeks of speculation by agreeing to terms with French Top14 club Toulon.
At the age of 28, Giteau will join the French club in November following the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. Though he is under contract with the Australian Rugby Union until December 31, the organization has indicated it will not prevent his departure.
In a clear signal of his desire to continue his Test career, which currently includes 91 caps, the linchpin from the Brumbies has effectively signed an 18-month deal. This arrangement allows him to return to Australia midway through 2013, aiming for selection in the Wallabies against the British and Irish Lions that year.
Several top Australian players, such as Stephen Moore, Berrick Barnes, and Drew Mitchell, have recently turned down overseas offers, particularly considering the opportunity to compete against the Lions in 2013.
Reports suggest Giteau is thrilled to have finalized the deal ahead of the Brumbies’ Super Rugby season kickoff.
Interestingly, veteran England fly-half Johnny Wilkinson renewed his contract with Toulon last month, raising speculation that Giteau might play at inside centre, although Wilkinson often comes off the bench.
Giteau will take on the role of captain for the Brumbies in their season-opener against the Chiefs on Saturday in Canberra, with regular skipper Stephen Hoiles being gradually reintroduced by coach Andy Friend from the bench after dealing with an Achilles injury.
by Terence Johns
