Hooper signs five-year deal and stresses his commitment to Australian rugby

Captain Michael Hooper may lead the Wallabies to the next two World Cups after signing a new five-year contract with Rugby Australia.

The 26-year-old backrower has played 82 Tests and could easily double that tally under his new contract which runs through the end of 2023. Professional rugby players seldom sign contracts of such duration, preferring to give themselves the option of eventually securing lucrative contracts overseas, but Hooper, right, who would likely commandmore than $1 million per year to play in Europe, said yesterday the decision to remain in Australia came easily.

“I never really thought about going elsewhere or entertaining anything like that,” he said. “I was really keen to stay in Australia and keep doing what I can for the Wallabies and the Waratahs. It’s a long deal so I have to thank (Wallabies coach Michael Cheika) and (Australian rugby chief executive Raelene Castle) as well as the Waratahs for having the belief in me that I can continue to contribute.

“I love Australian rugby, I like heading down to Manly Oval to watch club footy in my time off, I enjoy getting stuck in at Super Rugby level and nothing compares to playing Test rugby for your country. I’m not really into contracts and all that back and forward so to know I’m sorted through the next World Cup is really comforting.”

Australian media has reported Hooper’s new deal may be worth $6m over five years, making him the highest-paid player in Australia or New Zealand.

Cheika said Hooper’s decision showed his faith in the future of rugby in Australia, in its constant battle for audience share with other codes.

“Michael’s commitment to Rugby in Australia and to the Wallabies is second to none,” Cheika said. “He is a very proud Australian and a great representative of what we want in sport in Australia.

“He guarantees full commitment and effort every time he plays and he never takes a backward step. Now as captain he’s learning each day and growing into the type of leader that we need in the game.”