Former Wallabies captain signs with Rugby Australia’s Sevens squad

Long-time Wallabies captain Michael Hooper is shifting his focus to rugby sevens from the 15-a-side game with a plan to play for Australia at next year’s Paris Olympics.

The 32-year-old Hooper was contentiously omitted by coach Eddie Jones from Australia’s ill-fated Rugby World Cup squad. The Australians failed to reach the knockout stage for the first time, and Jones has since departed as coach.

“Firstly, I’d like to thank John Manenti (Australian Men’s Sevens coach) and Scott Bowen (National Performance Manager - Sevens) for the opportunity to join the program in what is a massively exciting year with the Olympics on the horizon,” said Hooper.

Hooper on Thursday said he had signed to play in the newly-revamped global sevens series in the build-up to the 2024 Games.