Rugby: George Smith re-signs with Wallabies

George Smith. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - Veteran Wallabies flanker George Smith has re-signed with the Australian Rugby Union for two more years, "turning his back on European suitors," the ARU said in a statement today.

Smith, who has played 96 tests, agreed to terms until the end of 2011 and said the lure of playing at the next Rugby World Cup in New Zealand was a strong driving force.

"The opportunity to play at another World Cup was a huge motivation," said Smith, who played at the 2003 and 2007 tournaments in Australia and France respectively.

"But it also comes down to coaching, lifestyle, family and the opportunity for financial security."

Smith, 29, made his debut against France in Paris in 2000. He played in Bledisloe Cup series-winning teams in 2001 and 2002. There was also a series win over the British and Irish Lions in 2001 and a Tri-Nations win the same year.

ARU chief executive John O'Neill said Smith's decision to stay in Australia was confirmation that the salaries and conditions on offer to elite players helped keep them in the country.

"We have re-signed a number of leading players in the past couple of weeks, despite cynics suggesting we were moving too slowly or offering them less than their worth," O'Neill said.

"We still have a number of players we want to lock down for the next Rugby World Cup."

- AP