Scrumhalf Jake Gordon has decided to stay with Australian rugby until the end of the 2027 World Cup, turning down big-money offers from clubs in France, England, and Japan. Gordon said he is excited about playing against the British & Irish Lions later this year and hopes to be part of the World Cup in Australia.
The 31-year-old played in nine test matches under coach Joe Schmidt last season. He is expected to compete with Tate McDermott for the starting scrumhalf spot in the three upcoming matches against the Lions.
Speaking to reporters in Sydney, Gordon said, “I won’t lie — I looked at offers from overseas. But with Joe staying another year and the chance to play in the Lions series and a home World Cup, I just couldn’t say no.”
Joe Schmidt recently agreed to coach the Wallabies until mid-next year, after which Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss will take over.
“Last year, I think I played well in Test matches, but I want to do even better,” Gordon said.
“I really liked playing under coach Joe. He helped me understand how to play in a simple way, which worked well. The whole coaching team did a great job, and we started to play better as the year went on.”
Many Wallabies players like Len Ikitau, Fraser McReight, Nick Frost, and others have also recently extended their contracts with Rugby Australia.
Gordon will keep playing Super Rugby for the New South Wales Waratahs, the Sydney team he’s been leading since 2021.
“I believe our team is improving and will keep getting stronger,” he added.
“I want to stay here, help the team, and hopefully win more games.”
