Gerrard heading back to Oz?
January 29 2010
Mark Gerrard may be heading back to Australia in time for the 2011 World Cup, either with the Brumbies or with the Melbourne Rebels.
Both teams are monitoring the situation, although Gerrard has been in touch with the Brumbies personally regarding a return after he finishes his contract with the NTT club.
The Brumbies would seem to be the right option for him if Stirling Mortlock moves to the Rebels as anticipated, because Adam Ashley-Cooper could move to outside centre at the Brumbies, leaving the full-back job open.
But the Rebels are also looking at Gerrard.
"Gerrard had a tremendous season for us in 2009 but as good as it was, I still think there is a lot more to his game yet," said Brumbies coach Andy Friend to The Australian, describing Gerrard as "the best kicker in Super 14."
"I was really disappointed when he left to go overseas. To me, what was really pleasing about last year was that he started to show himself what he was capable of when he really applied himself.
"At this point in time we have other players we are looking at for this coming season but you don't ever give up the opportunity to talk to someone of that quality."
Gerrard is still only 27, and with 23 Test caps to his name has both age and experience on his side, a perfect fit for Rebels coach Rod Macqueen.
"Mark Gerrard is a good example of the sort of player we're after," Macqueen said.
"It would be good to get him back to Australia. I don't expect to sign many overseas players.
"Our whole objective is to make Australian rugby stronger and we can only achieve that by giving Australian players a chance."