Wallabies veterans eyeing Super swansong in World Cup year

Day declined to elaborate on whether Australian clubs were among those who’d approached but informed sources said the 76-Test playmaker, who steered the Wallabies to a World Cup final in 2015, has had recent interest from the Waratahs, and there has also been informal contact with the Queensland Reds about a potential role under incoming coach Vern Cotter next year. Foley last played Super Rugby in 2019 before moving to Japan, where he has been a dominant figure and helped Kubota win the 2023 Top League title, and finish runner-up last year. His last Test for the Wallabies was in November 2022 against Ireland. O’Connor, who played seven Tests last year in a remarkable comeback, is also eager on a return to Australia in 2027 if a spot on a roster opens up.

Informed sources said the 35-year-old has had contact with the Reds and Waratahs but no offers have been made yet. O’Connor could also end up in Durban with the Sharks, who play in the United Rugby Championship. Sharks coach JP Pietersen is keen on signing O’Connor, according to South African newspaper Rapport.