Wallabies star Haylett-Petty re-signs with ARU

Wallabies star Dane Haylett-Petty has signed a two-year extension with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU), taking him through until the end of 2019.

Western Force’s Haylett-Petty made his international debut last year and went on to play 14 Tests for Australia.

The full-back also scored four tries and was named the Wallabies Rookie of the Year.

“I’m very excited to be staying home and playing for the Force, obviously the draw card of trying to get back into that Wallabies team was a large part of my decision,” Haylett-Petty said in a statement.

“I really enjoyed last year, the challenges week in and week out, watching my game grow and the Force were a big part of that and I feel like we’re really heading in the right direction and we have a great group of young men with a bright future.

“Pulling on that gold jersey was a goal I’ve had my whole career. I’m looking forward to the season ahead and hopeful of representing Australia again.”

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika praised Haylett-Petty for his 2016, but believes there is more to come from the South Africa-born 27-year-old.

“Dane’s performances in 2016 spoke for themselves and our desire for him to stay and play in Australia show how much we value him as a player,” he said.

“We know that his best is yet to come and we will be working hard with Dane in 2017 to ensure that he achieves the goals he’s set out for the next few years.”