Wallabies and NSW Waratahs flanker Michael Hooper has signed a contract extension that will keep him playing rugby in Australia until at least the end of 2018.

The incumbent Wallabies captain and 42-Test veteran had previously signed until the end 2016, but this deal will keep the 23-year-old under contract with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) for a further two years.

“The opportunity to play for my country is something I am very passionate about, and is a huge reason why I wanted to commit beyond my current term,” Hooper said on Thursday.