ROCKY ELSOM has given further broad hints that he is set to return to Australia and play Super 14 rugby next season, writes GERRY THORNLEY.

With the Australian Rugby Union playing hard ball over Elsom’s need to play for a Super 14 franchise if he wants to resume playing for Australia, the ACT Brumbies have emerged as the strong favourites to sign the former New South Wales Warathahs flanker.

Elsom, who is with the Barbarians in London prior to their game against England in Twickenham tomorrow, is due to return to Australia as part of the Baabaas squad for their game against the Wallabies next week and will resume negotiations with the ARU and the Brumbies, and perhaps the Waratahs as well.

“I’ve really enjoyed this season,” said the 58-times capped Elsom.

“I already liked Dublin before playing for Leinster and obviously enjoyed the rugby. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I have done but ultimately I’m Australian and I want to play for Australia. You don’t always have the opportunity to do that but I do now so I want to take advantage of it.”

“My contract with Leinster is over so I’m going to try and head back to Australia. I want to play for a Super 14 team because my first priority has always been the Wallabies. That’s what I want to do. I’ve spoken at length with the Australian management about moving back, it’s not something I’ve only just decided to do. It’s just about finalising things now.”

That said, the option of a one-year extension with Leinster remains on the table and no deal has yet been finalised with the ARU and the Brumbies.