Giteau grateful for second chance

Editor

Matt Giteau is taking nothing for granted after being given a second shot with Australia at the World Cup.

Four years ago the Wallaby playmaker was left out of Robbie Deans' squad for the tournament in New Zealand, with his international career seemingly over.

A move to France saw him flourish at Toulon, but he wasn't eligible to play for the Wallabies.

However a change in selection policy, known by some as the 'Giteau Law' has allowed Michael Cheika to recall him, and Giteau is very grateful to get another opportunity after being named in the squad for the World Cup.

"At the time (in 2011) I was moving over to France, I’ve said that I was bitter at the time, but I had no right to be because I’d been given so many opportunities to play for my country," Giteau told Fox.

"It’s a totally different flipside. I had a coach that didn’t see my benefit – which is fine, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with that – but then I’ve got another coach that’s brought me all the way from France.

"So to be unfortunate in one circumstance, but incredibly fortunate in another, I can’t really complain.

"I’m not emotional as far as crying, but you get the nerves and butterflies, that really proud feeling to represent your country again.

"I’ve been unfortunate enough to be excluded from a big campaign like this, so for me, it’s something I don’t take for granted. It’s something that means a lot to me, to be included and to be given another shot."