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Rugby Union

Dallaglio holds out World Cup hope

17/04/2007

Former England skipper Lawrence Dallaglio has rubbished rumours that he is set to retire and revealed that he is still chasing a recall to the national side for the defence of their world crown in France.

The 34-year-old number eight has guided Wasps into contention for a Guinness Premiership play-off spot as well as a final-four berth in the Heineken Cup and is hoping that Brian Ashton may yet turn to his experience.

"If you play well in the business end of the season then all options are open to you as a player," he said.

"There's lots to play for, both for me and every other player here."

Dallaglio last turned out for England in the 2006 Six Nations defeat to France and has since watched relative youngsters such as club colleague Tom Rees and Sale's Magnus Lund jump ahead of him in the international pecking order.

Even if he fails to force his way into the squad for France, he vowed to remain with the Adams Park side for at least one more domestic campaign.

"Whether I go to the World Cup or not, a lot of back row players are going - and a lot will be from this club. But if I don't go there will be a job to be done here while they're away," he concluded.

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