Wallaby star to stay in Australia
NEWS: Wallabies star Dane Haylett-Petty has re-signed with Rugby Australia and Melbourne Rebels until the end of 2021 on a new two-year deal.
The 29-year-old has established himself as a mainstay of the Wallabies backline after making his debut against England in 2016.
The versatile outside back has already racked up 31 Test caps and his form was recognised earlier this year when he was named captain for the Melbourne Rebels’ 2019 Super Rugby campaign.
Haylett-Petty said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time in Melbourne since arriving last year. This environment has really helped me develop as a player on the field, and as a leader off the field.
“I wanted to do what was best for my development as a rugby player, and that was to stay here in Australia and to continue my journey here at the Rebels and Wallabies.
“We have a lot left to achieve at an International level and I want to contribute to the best of my ability. The World Cup is a major goal of course, but this season we’ve already spoken about how important the Rugby Championship is and how much we want to get our hands on the Bledisloe Cup for all of Australia.
“There’s no bigger honour – and challenge – than representing your country, and competing against the best teams and players in the world,” Haylett-Petty said.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika added: “Dane is a real competitor and has quickly stepped up to the standard of Test footy.
“The outside backs are a really competitive position in our side and Dane often leads the way in how he prepares during the week and his commitment during games on the weekend.
“He’s had that experience overseas which has helped mature him as a footballer and I know how desperate he is to have a big part to play in the World Cup later this year,” Cheika said.
Haylett-Petty started his professional rugby career with the Western Force before starring for Biarritz in the French Top 14 and then in Japan’s Top League for Shokki Shuttles.
DANE HAYLETT-PETTY RE-SIGNED
As just revealed on SEN, Dane Haylett-Petty has put pen to paper and agreed to stay on in Melbourne. pic.twitter.com/B5EuWfU7zD
ADVERTISEMENT— Melbourne Rebels (@MelbourneRebels) February 20, 2019
