Mat Rogers admits he would seriously consider a return to rugby league after next year’s World Cup in France.
The dual international made headlines when he switched codes in 2002, leaving National Rugby League team the Cronulla Sharks for the number 15 jersey at the New South Wales Waratahs.
But the 30-year-old revealed to he would contemplate moving back to the Sharks, or possibly a stint with the new Gold Coast franchise, the Titans.
"I’d be stupid not to consider it. I’m a footballer…not a rugby union player," he said.
"The Sharks have always said they would welcome me back if I wanted a swansong. I also have family on the Gold Coast, so you never say never.
"After the World Cup, I reckon I could play a couple more years. At the moment, I’m pretty happy in rugby (union)."
Rogers remained in Sydney with a knee injury as Australia jetted to South Africa for the final Tri Nations clash against the Springboks next weekend.
Rogers will spend up to five weeks on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on Thursday, but the versatile back has rejected claims he is an injury liability for Australia ahead of the team’s upcoming tour of Europe and ultimately, the World Cup next year.
"I don’t think I have got a major drama with injuries," he said.
"I’ve had a few niggling injuries in the last couple of years. I hurt my groin last year and missed four weeks, and I did my cartilage and missed another three weeks.
"With this injury I’ll miss one game. I have actually been very happy with the last couple of years."
Australia coach John Connolly has opted to use Rogers as an impact player off the bench this season and the frustration of not being able to secure a starting position is starting to show.
"I enjoy having an impact off the bench but obviously every player likes to start," Rogers added.
"It does frustrate me at times, but it’s a team game. You can’t be selfish about it."
