Wallabies backrower Lopeti Timani has knocked back interest from cashed-up European clubs to remain in Melbourne for another two Super Rugby seasons.
Timani’s contract extension will keep him in Australia up to the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
The 26-year-old made his Wallabies debut from the bench against Argentina in September on the back of 12 appearances for the Rebels last year.
The Tonga-born forward, who can also play lock, has since earned five caps for Australia having been selected for the spring tour in a breakout 12 months.
The powerhouse ball-runner has the potential to lock down the Wallabies No.8 jersey in coming years.
“You can see he wants it after knocking back some lucrative European offers to stay and play in Melbourne and putting his hand up to represent the Wallabies again in 2017,” Wallabies coach Michael Cheika said.