Stephen Moore re-signs with Wallabies, Brumbies until end of 2016

INJURED Wallabies hooker Stephen Moore has given Australian rugby a much-needed boost by re-signing with the ARU and the Brumbies until the end of 2016.

STEPHEN Moore could grab the record for most games by an Australian Super Rugby player after committing to the ACT Brumbies for 2016.

The one-year contract extension for the sidelined Wallabies hooker is a win-win result at a tumultuous time for Australian rugby.

Not only is a beacon of high standards, on and off the field, staying in the game in this country but appreciation for all he has contributed over 12 seasons will deservedly rise as well.

Moore, 31, has played 131 Super Rugby games for the Brumbies and Queensland Reds on top of his 92 Tests.

Nathan Sharpe’s Australian record of 162 Super Rugby appearances is within reach for Moore with 32 regular season games plus finals potentially ahead of the Brumbies over the next two seasons.

Stephen Moore has signed a new deal with the ARU and Brumbies.

The knee reconstruction that Moore underwent in June was a successful surgery and he has progressed well in rehabilitation in the four-and-half-months since.

He has a February return in mind but will still be pushing it to be fit for the 2015 opener against the Reds in Canberra on February 13.

Time away from the game has given Moore the ability to assess where he wants his career to head while also being a stay-at-home dad for his two young children.

“For me to have another year in Australian rugby is exciting and invigorating,” Moore said.

Stephen Moore’s first game as Wallabies captain was cut short by a knee injury.

“There were options for me to continue my playing career overseas but with a young family I thought the best option was to stay in Canberra and with the Brumbies.

“We are fortunate to have fantastic support in Canberra from all walks of life which really made the decision to stay for another year much easier.”

With Ben Mowen now playing in France, Moore will also captain the Brumbies next year. His case to lead the Wallabies again will sprout from there.

“I believe the Brumbies are working towards more success and it’s nice to be given an opportunity to be a part of that until at least the end of 2016,” Moore said.

“I’m grateful to the ARU and Brumbies for the opportunity for me to continue my career in Australia. I’m looking forward to the next two seasons.”

STAYING ON FOR TWO MOORE YEARS — STEPHEN MOORE

Position: Hooker

Height/weight: 186cm/112kg

Super Rugby Caps: 131

Super Rugby Debut: 2003 v Bulls, Pretoria (Reds)

Test Caps: 92

Test Debut: 2003 v Samoa, Sydney

Originally published as Stephen Moore re-signs with Wallabies, Brumbies until end of 2016