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Rugby League

Tuqiri faces deadline on future

08/03/2007

Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has given star player Lote Tuqiri a deadline of Monday March 12th to decide whether his future is in rugby union or rugby league.

The Fijian-born Wallabies representative is a dual code international, having played on the wing for Australia in both disciplines, and there has been speculation of late that he is eyeing a return to rugby league after switching to union in 2002.

Financial wrangles have so far prevented Tuqiri from rejoining the NRL and the ARU has now tabled what seems to be a final offer to the player in order to keep him in the Super 14 with either the New South Wales Waratahs or the Queensland Reds.

"In accordance with ARU protocols, all Super 14 Provinces are allowed to speak to and make offers, in conjunction with the ARU, to any player coming off contract," said the ARU's general manager of rugby operations Pat Wilson.

"We are hopeful Lote now decides to stay with rugby. He has to weigh up the two Super 14 offers, consider each of their rugby programs, coaching support and infrastructure and make a decision."

Wilson also sought to end speculation that the ARU was breaking the bank in order to keep Tuqiri, who is an influential and important figure in world rugby.

"The ARU wants to make it clear that the public speculation about the size of its offer to Lote has been incorrect and any reference to third party arrangements [is] separate to this offer.

"We expect a decision from Lote by close of business Monday March 12th. We have made it clear to Lote that Australian Rugby's offer expires at that time," Wilson concluded.

Tuqiri has played for his native Fiji and Australia in rugby league and has represented the Wallabies in rugby union.

If he chooses to return to rugby league, he will do so after the 2007 World Cup in France, which takes place in the autumn.

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