It's unfortunate because we genuinely believed that with the new contract the dual eligibility was discussed in full with him. Players can't be duplicitous when they sign a contract. O'Neill was critical of Collins, who was signed by the ARU on the understanding he would be available for the Wallabies. But Collins declared himself available for New Zealand and later said he only used Australia as a fallback position. O'Neill said a new system would be put in place next month so players could not use a loophole to sign for one country's union and play for another.
Players have to understand contracts are like any other employment contracts.
You just can't walk away. In other news, Australian coach Rod Macqueen said he might still consider using European-based Australians such as Jason Little and Tim Horan for next month's Wallaby tour. The new five-deal with Bundaberg Rum was announced yesterday. As part of its development strategy, the ARU said it would take top-level rugby into regional Australia next year. The British Lions tour next year will include matches against Australia A in Gosford on June 19 and NSW Country in Coffs Harbour on June 26.