Australian Scrumhalf Rejects Overseas Offers, Stays with Wallabies

Australian rugby player Jake Gordon commits to Wallabies until 2027 World Cup, rejecting overseas offers to play key role in Lions series and World Cup on home soil.

Australian scrumhalf Jake Gordon has re-committed to Australian rugby until the 2027 World Cup.

Gordon turned down lucrative offers from clubs in France, England, and Japan, opting to stay with the Wallabies. He looks forward to facing the British & Irish Lions and making his World Cup debut on home soil.

The 31-year-old is likely to compete with Tate McDermott for the number nine shirt in the three-test series against the Lions, having started nine tests under Joe Schmidt last season.

Jake extends through to the end of 2027 💥#wearetahs pic.twitter.com/L7NuZPpd71

— NSW Waratahs (@NSWWaratahs) May 7, 2025

“I'd be lying if I said I didn't see what was overseas,” he said. “I thought the opportunity with Joe staying on for another year and possibly being able to play the Lions series and a home World Cup... was too good to pass up.” Schmidt's extension until mid-next year, before handing over to Les Kiss, influenced his decision.

The Wallabies have seen recent contract extensions for several players, including Len Ikitau and Fraser McReight, and now scrumhalf Jake Gordon has committed to Australian rugby.

“We really started to find our game later in the (year),” Gordon noted. He sees potential for growth, saying, “I do see some longevity in our progression, I do see it getting better and better. I just want to stay here and contribute and hopefully have some really good wins.” Gordon will continue playing for the New South Wales Waratahs.

“Last year, I thought I had a decent year at test level. I'm hungry to go better,” Gordon added.

“I really enjoyed my time under Joe, I really simplified the way I needed to play for him, which was great. To be fair, the whole coaching team did a great job and I think you could see our progression."