Len Ikitau: Exeter’s Australia centre opts for World Cup over R360

Len Ikitau says he would not join the rebel R360 competition if it meant he would miss the chance to play for Australia at the 2027 World Cup.

Ikitau, 27, has just arrived at Exeter from Super Rugby’s Brumbies after agreeing a one-season deal with the Prem Rugby side.

The Wallabies centre says his representatives have been approached by R360 about joining the competition, which organisers want to commence next October.

“Being able to play in a Rugby World Cup, but in Australia, I don’t think you get the opportunity again,” Ikitau told BBC Sport.

“So just having that in the back of my mind, wanting to be able to represent Australia in the 2027 World Cup, is something I want to do.”

Earlier this week most of the major rugby unions, including Australia, said they would not pick players for international matches if they opt to join the new breakaway league.

The competition, spearheaded by former England captain Mike Tindall, plans to have 12 franchises across the world – eight men’s teams and four women’s teams.

The hope is to get the world’s best players competing alongside one another in a global tournament.

Rounds would be staged at a different venue across the world, with organisers hoping it will begin next year.

“It looks like it’s going to be an exciting competition,” added Ikitau, who has just finished playing in the Rugby Championship and is in line to make his Chiefs debut next week against Harlequins.

“To say that if you play in that competition you can’t play in the World Cup, you’re kind of weighing up your options.

“I feel like a new competition for rugby would be awesome, but being a part of it, who knows?

“I think my manager’s been in touch, but I’m here with Exeter, and then I’m back with the Brums next year.”