Kane at peace with not being able to play for Wallabies

NEW South Wales Waratahs lock Kane Douglas has applauded the Australian Rugby Union’s tough stance on Wallabies eligibility despite the rigid rules denying him the chance to play at next year’s World Cup.

ARU chief Bill Pulver last month emphatically dismissed the prospect of introducing sabbaticals that would allow Test stars to continue representing the Wallabies while playing offshore.

Douglas is putting his international career on hold and heading to Irish club Leinster at year’s end, but the 14- Test Wallaby not only has no regrets but also endorses the ARU’s hardline position.

“They’ve got to be strong on their stance and encourage boys to stay and play in Australia and for Australia,” he said yesterday.

The 25- year- old said he’d love to have played at the 2015 World Cup, but knew he’d given up the chance when he made up his mind to venture overseas.

“So I’ve come to grips with that,” he said.

Western Force and incumbent Wallabies winger Nick Cummins last week announced he was moving to Japan at the end of the Super Rugby season.

Douglas said Cummins’ decision wasn’t all about money and he commended his former Test teammate.

“It’s not just the money side of it,” he said.

“He’ll get more time off – I think they have a break for three or four months – so he’ll be able to spend a heap more time with his family.”