Sharpe: Postpones retirement... again
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Veteran Wallaby lock Nathan Sharpe agreed to postpone his retirement again after a mayday call from Robbie Deans to keep going for the four-Test tour of Europe in November.
The 34-year-old announced in February he would quit all competitive rugby at the end of July and move into the resources industry, while also working as a media commentator.
But he was enticed into staying on for the inaugural Rugby Championship over the Australian winter after injuries sidelined James Horwill and the forced retirement of Dan Vickerman.
He had an exceptional tournament, taking the captaincy when injury-hit David Pocock and then Will Genia, and agreed to remain with the squad for the Tests against England, France, Italy and Wales from November 10.
Deans said the decision to ask him to continue was logical given his experience and the fact that several senior players would not be ready to return as starters.
"You only have to look at what he has achieved with the group since he took over as captain," Deans said.
"His influence has been immense, he is arguably playing the best rugby of his career but, most importantly, he is enjoying the experience.
"Sharpey's presence and leadership has been a constant throughout the year - one of the few aspects of continuity that we've had through a season that is probably without precedent in terms of disruption."
Last weekend in Argentina, Sharpe became Australia's most capped forward, and second most capped player ever, taking the field for his 111th Test in their 25-19 win over the Pumas.
The gritty performance saw Australia finish runners-up behind the All Blacks in the four-nation tournament, which also features South Africa.
"Playing for Australia is something I have never taken for granted," said Sharpe.
"As such, to be asked to continue beyond the deadline I had set for myself was both flattering but also a request that was very difficult to turn down.
"The opportunity to lead the Wallabies again on what will be a challenging but exciting tour was too tempting. It is not easy to say no to your country."
Comments
Kiwikev says...
Well I was going to comment that this news would cause a certain poster to slash his wrists but the point has already been made!
Good on ya Sharpie!
Posted 10:47 11th October 2012
2eyedkiwi says...
Bell-ends like QC and his mates should spend a week or 2 with the likes of Nathan Sharpe and learn about the importance of the team and the jersey before their overinflated egos (and managers) get the better of them.
Well played Capt. Sharpe. Here's to a succesful tour.
Posted 09:30 11th October 2012
rugby_rockstar says...
Stepping into the breach! Nice one Nath.
The other thing to remember is that when your're retired, you're retired. So the temptation for one more before the road must be strong. Enjoy yourself Nathan, you've earned the world's respect in a pack that's not always been on the front foot... until they gave you the ball and asked you to run through brick walls!
Posted 09:24 11th October 2012
GoWalesGo says...
It's a sensible decision from Deans/ARU.
With the amount of injuries they've got and the pressure that will be on Deans for results, Sharpe's class, experience and leadership will be vital.
He always plays well against the NH teams as well.
Posted 09:24 11th October 2012
chisel68 says...
Great news that bullet is doing the NH Tour. This is the sort of commitment, attitude & leadership the Wallabies need at moment - do'ers, not talkers. Take note young brigade..
Posted 08:31 11th October 2012
Trader2 says...
Over to you goose, I mean George
Posted 07:50 11th October 2012
jonesy2 says...
its a no brainer really, they need him and he is playing brilliant rugby, no point wasting that form in the backyard with the kids
Posted 07:37 11th October 2012
sandal says...
Good man. And why not, when he's playing so well?
Let's hope georgesmith doesn't bash his brains out against a wall. Someone say he'd already done that?
Posted 07:29 11th October 2012