News

Tuqiri considers his options

July 05 2009

Australia star Lote Tuqiri has revealed his devastation at being dumped by the Australian Rugby Union (ARU).

The wing, with 67 caps to his name, had previously been warned over contract breaches and had his five-year deal terminated by the board on Wednesday over a "standard employment matter".

Pending an appeal, the 29-year-old winger is now unlikely to fulfil his ambition to win the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand and he admits he is still in a state of shock.

"I didn't see it coming," said Tuqiri.

"It's a legal matter, it's with the lawyers. It's a contract dispute and we're going from there.

"I don't know what my future holds. I've got the next week or so to work out what I want to do and where I'd like to go with my football career.

"My main goal was to get to the 2011 World Cup. It is very sad I won't get that chance. I've had a crack at two World Cups and the fact I can't rectify the way we went out leaves a bitter taste."

Reports suggest that Tuqiri may be forced to play overseas with his prohibitive price tag potentially blocking a return to Australia's National Rugby League.

Although some clubs initially sounded out an NRL return for the winger, who played 99 NRL games for the Brisbane Broncos and five rugby league Tests for Australia before he switched codes in 2003, they now say they cannot afford him.

ARU boss John O'Neill told reporters on Thursday the winger's dismissal was not a police matter and refuted suggestions he had a personal agenda with Tuqiri.

"Clearly the decision to terminate a contract is one that requires consideration," said O'Neill.

"We gave that consideration and reached the conclusion with our eyes open."