NSW Waratahs lock Kane Douglas has applauded the Australian Rugby Union's tough stance on Wallabies eligibility despite the rigid rules denying him the chance to play at next year's World Cup.
ARU chief Bill Pulver last month emphatically dismissed the prospect of introducing sabbaticals that would allow Test stars to continue representing the Wallabies while playing offshore.
Douglas is putting his international career on hold and heading to Irish club Leinster at year's end, but the 14-Test Wallaby not only has no regrets but also endorses the ARU's hardline position.
"They've got to be strong on their stance and encourage boys to stay and play in Australia and for Australia," he said on Tuesday.
"So I'm happy with my future."
The 25-year-old said he'd love to have played at the 2015 World Cup, but knew he'd given up the chance when he made up his mind to venture overseas.
"So I've come to grips with that," he said. "I'm pretty content."
Western Force and incumbent Wallabies winger Nick Cummins, from a large family with a single father recently diagnosed with cancer, last week announced he was moving to Japan at the end of the Super Rugby season.
Douglas said Cummins' decision wasn't all about money and he commended his former Test teammate.
"I'm pretty good mates with Nick ... and Nick Wants to provide for his family and he's got that chance to do that," Douglas said.
"It's not just the money side of it. He'll get more time off - I think they have a break for three or four months - so he'll be able to spend a heap more time with his family.
"Hats off to him. He's a really good guy and looking after his family."
Douglas is intent on leaving Australia on a high with a Super Rugby championship with the Waratahs.
"I probably won't get to play with any of these boys for the next few years so it would definitely be good to finish with a bang," he said.
"I've loved my time here and loved all the boys I've played with ... but I'm still very comfortable with where my future's at now."
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