Cheika backs Oz selection policy

Former Leinster coach Michael Cheika, above, said he will not try to interfere with Australia’s long-standing policy of refusing to select overseas-based stars.

That means the likes of Toulon pivot Matt Giteau will remain out of reach, but Wallaby head coach Cheika said anyone putting money ahead of Test glory does not warrant consideration for selection.

Cheika admitted it was a blow to have lost new Leinster recruit Kane Douglas to his Wallabies squad, revealing Australia Rugby Union (ARU) bosses are considering sabbaticals for top stars to offset further long-term losses.

“Obviously we did a lot to try to get Kane Douglas to stay in Australia,” said Cheika.

“The previous regime had a different idea on what they felt was required to keep him in Australia and he decided to leave, and that’s generally the marketplace of the game.

“The ARU is taking steps now to revisit some of its ideas going forward, I know they’ve been talking about sabbaticals and things like that for players, to try to keep more and more players in Australia.

“But at the end of the day there is a money difference in coming over here to play, but it’s when you make that final decision that money’s more important to you than playing for Australia.

“And when you make that decision, it’s time for someone else to play for Australia.”