Gregan opts out of Spring Tour

Australian Wallabies Captain George Gregan has opted to rest from the Wallabies’ four-Test Spring Tour to focus on his preparation for next year’s World Cup in France.

Gregan, the World’s most capped international player with 127 Test caps, said his decision to miss next month’s tour was based purely on the opportunity to gain a full physical preparation ahead of the World Cup.

“I haven’t completed a solid block of physical training since 2000, so having the opportunity to rest from the Spring Tour will give me a chance to make some good physical gains leading into a World Cup year,” said Gregan.

Gregan cited his Brumbies and Wallaby teammate Stirling Mortlock as an example of a player who has flourished from a period of extended training.

“If you look at Stirling, he definitely had one of his best years this year after getting a full pre-season of training prior to the Super 14,” said Gregan.

“Having that chance to complete two months of physical training is very rare these days and it really rejuvenated Stirling’s career,” he added.

Wallabies Coach John Connolly said Gregan’s decision to rest from the Spring Tour has by no means signaled the end of his Test career.

“This does not mean that George’s Test career is over,” said Connolly.

“We understand from George’s perspective that he wants to go out on a high after the World Cup and is focused on getting into the best possible shape to give himself the chance to perform at his best next year,” he said.

Connolly said that he was happy with Gregan’s form through the nine-Test series this winter, but has not assured his skipper a place in next year’s Test squad.

“I think he’s had a very solid year for the Wallabies and has led the team pretty well,” said Connolly.

“Having said that, no-one is guaranteed a place in the team (for next year). The tour will be important for a number of players, as will next year’s Super 14.”

Connolly said that Gregan would remain on stand-by for the Spring Tour if injuries persist in the halfback ranks.

“At the moment we have some injury concerns at the scrumhalf position and we will wait and see on the fitness of (Sam) Cordingley and (Josh) Valentine over the next couple of weeks,” said Connolly.

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Wallaby Spring Tour finalised (Wed Aug 23)