Kurtley Beale could be returning to Australia and the NSW Waratahs

Signing one international star might just be the beginning for the Waratahs.

Kurtley Beale playing for the Wallabies . (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images,)

The NSW Waratahs have added former Wales and British and Irish Lions star Jamie Roberts to their playing tranks for 2022 amid reports Kurtley Beale could also be planning a Super Rugby return.

Beale was called up by Wallabies coach Dave Rennie during last year’s European Tour to bolster his injury-depleted squad and was impressive in his first Tests since 2019.

The 33-year-old had previously declared his ambition to push for the 2023 World Cup, which would be his fourth.

Having played 93-Tests, Beale is eligible for Wallabies selection from anywhere in the world but reports out of France suggest he’s going to turn his back on a lucrative new contract to return to the Waratahs.

The potential for a Beale return comes as the Tahs signed Roberts, capped 94 times by Wales and with three Lions Test appearances, on a one-year contract to add to the backline.

Roberts, who turned 35 last November, made his Test debut for Wales in 2008, has featured in two Rugby World Cups and won three Six Nations titles with Wales including two Grand Slams.

“I’m really excited to join the Waratahs. The adventure of playing in a new competition in a different country outside my comfort zone excites me.” Roberts, who is also a qualified doctor, said.

“As my Sydney-born partner is expecting our second child in March, we feel the best decision for our family is to be surrounded by her support network in Sydney.

It's official @jamiehuwroberts is now a Tah. 💙 Welcome!

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Become a Tahs member today: https://t.co/xNqKodKvgV
(Memberships for as little as $35)

💙🏉 #fortheloveofrugby#Reset22pic.twitter.com/SV87U2xu5j

— NSW Waratahs (@NSWWaratahs) January 24, 2022

“On the rugby front, I’m looking to hit the ground running, get up to speed quickly, perform on the pitch and help drive success.

“Hopefully I can impart some of my knowledge and insight to the talented youngsters on the team, keep improving as a player and keep developing as a person for what may come after.”

The Waratahs play their first trial match of 2022 against the Brumbies on Saturday 29 January at Bowral Rugby Club.

Originally published as Kurtley Beale could be returning to Australia and the NSW Waratahs