Wallaby legend eyeing return to Australia ahead of Rugby World Cup

Reports from Australia suggest that the wheels are in motion for Wallabies great Adam Ashley-Cooper to return to Australia and have a crack at playing in his fourth Rugby World Cup next year.

Foxsports.com.au reports that the 34-year-old veteran of 116 Tests wants to play his rugby in Australia next season and is in serious talks with the Waratahs and the Western Force.

Currently playing for Kobe Steelers in Japan, Ashley-Cooper last played for the Wallabies in 2016 and is eligible for selection through the ‘Giteau Law'.

A return to Australia would put him firmly in Michael Cheika’s sights and with the Top League scheduled to finish earlier than usual to allow local players to better prepare for next year’s global showpiece.

With the backing of Andrew ‘Twiggy’ Forrest the Force can offer the superior financial package, however, the Waratahs are believed to be in the prime position to snap up Ashley-Cooper’s services.

Ashley-Cooper was an integral member of the Waratahs’ 2014 Super Rugby title-winning team before taking up contracts in France then Japan.

The departures of Taqele Naiyaravoro, Andrew Kellaway and Irae Simone has freed up some room in the Waratahs’ salary cap although they are yet to confirm new deals for star Wallabies Bernard Foley and Israel Folau.

Story via:  foxsports.com.au