NICK CUMMINS SECURED a loan deal back to Super 15 club Western Force for the 2015 season, putting him back into the Wallabies frame for next year’s World Cup.
The winger was released from his contract by the Perth-based team in July to sign a lucrative two-year deal with Japan’s West Red Sparks on compassionate grounds.
The 27-year-old made the switch so he could provide financial support for his father Mark, who is battling cancer, and two other family members who have cystic fibrosis.
The move away from Australia made him ineligible for Wallabies selection but the World Cup dream of the shaggy-haired Cummins, a cult figure known as the “Honey Badger”, is once again alive.
“I’m stoked to be back on the burst and returning to Australian rugby in 2015,” he said. “Gonna be a huge year. Can’t wait to get amongst it!”
He will join the Force squad at the end of the Red Sparks’ season in early 2015 and will return to the Japanese club for the 2015/2016 Top League season.
“While most people are aware of Nick’s colourful personality, the character he displays in his performances on the field makes him an integral part of our team,” said Force coach Michael Foley.
“His ability to lighten the mood is balanced against a fierce determination to win and play for his mates.”
That would make the world cup a lot more entertaining.. also he’s an all round great guy
Great news. International rugby is the poorer for the absence of Nick Cummins. You can see why the Aussies adopt that principle though. If it was only a financial decision there wouldn’t be a sinner playing their club rugby in Australia. The lure of the Wallabies has to be a factor in their decision.
One of the most entertaining, inspiring, and gentlemanly players in world rugby. Fair play to him
The guy took the Japanese pay check chiefly to pay for his ill fathers hospital bill, so karma wins out, delighted for him.
Now my ticket for Australia v Fiji has got a whole lot better. Glad th AFU were able to sort something out in a World Cup year.
He is a great player but moved financially to help his sick family. What a gent and would hope to meet him after that match in the World Cup.
Great player. Will look forward to seeing him next year. Takes no prisoners at the breakdown.
Why would that make ineligible? Going to Japan..
Players playing their club rugby outside of Australia are ineligible to represent their country.
Good idea, are they the only country that do it
All blacks have a similar approach when players move north and Argentina are looking to do the same as well.
England also adopt the same rule
Does this mean Dan Carter’s last NZ appearance could be at the WC next year?
Yes, that is exactly what it means.