James O'Connor has re-signed with the Queensland Reds and Rugby Australia until the end of 2023.
O'Connor made his return to Australia in 2019 from Sale, immediately impressing as he was thrust into the Wallabies side for the Bledisloe Cup and World Cup.
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Since then, he has made the successful transition from centre to flyhalf, establishing himself as the premier playmaker in the country.
He was rewarded for an incredible 2021 season, named Super Rugby AU MVP as he guided the Reds to the title, scoring all 19 points during the thriller.
Whilst the thought of testing himself in NZ was considered, O'Connor has reaffirmed his commitment to Australian Rugby, signing an extension that will keep him in Queensland until the 2023 World Cup.
“Queensland is my home. I was born here. I love this State, I love pulling on the maroon jersey, and this is where I want to finish my career," he said in a statement.
“We have a great team now and I think we are going to do some special things. I’m excited to be part of it and to help take them forward.
“I came back with the intention to play for my country again and to prove to myself that I could take what I learned from overseas off-the-field and flourish in this environment.
“I truly feel that we have the group of coaches and players to take Australian Rugby back to the top and I want to be part of that more than anything.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity I was given and like I said when I arrived back, I put my service to this country and the Wallaby jersey above all."
After welcoming him back into Australian Rugby, Director of Rugby Scott Johnson was proud of O'Connor's development both on and off the field.
“It’s been a pleasure to have James back in Australian Rugby. I said at the time that he had matured immensely while overseas, and I think we have all seen that over the last two years," he added.
“James will be the first to say though that the work isn’t done. We have a number of things to achieve in Australian Rugby in the coming years, and James’ experience will be invaluable to both the Reds and the Wallabies.
“James also recognises the role he has as a mentor to our next generation too – and that may prove to his greatest legacy."
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