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Video: 'There was a bit of interest from overseas' - Australia prop Alaalatoa speaks about his new deal
By Peter Thompson
Allan Alaalatoa has rejected interest from overseas to sign a new four-year deal with the Brumbies and Rugby Australia.
The prop, who made his 10th start for the Wallabies in the 37-20 Bledisloe Cup defeat to New Zealand in Yokohama on Saturday, is now contracted until the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Alaalatoa, 24, says he gave the opportunity of playing abroad some thought but could not turn his back on his country.
"I was already contracted for next year but when the opportunity came up to stay until the next Rugby World Cup, I discussed it with my family and the decision was a pretty easy one," he said.
"There's an awesome future ahead for the Wallabies. We have a young squad that's developing each year so I'm just excited to hopefully be part of this group and what it can achieve.
"There was a bit of interest from overseas which is always something you consider but for me, first and foremost, was to stay with Australian rugby and the Brumbies.
"We had a tough camp here [in Odawara, Japan] this week and a bit of a review from the disappointing result against the All Blacks.
"Really looking forward to the three Tests over in the UK. It's going to be tough but it's something the boys are keen for."
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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