James Horwill and Adam Ashley-Cooper to continue Rugby careers in Europe post Rugby World Cup

Following today’s announcements by the Queensland Reds and the NSW Waratahs, players James Horwill and Adam Ashley-Cooper will continue their Rugby careers in Europe beyond the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

James Horwill will head to English Club Harlequins and Adam Ashley-Cooper will pursue opportunities in the French Top 14 competition with Bordeaux-Begles.

Horwill (Wallaby 819) has received 58 Test caps including 16 as captain and Adam Ashley-Cooper (Wallaby 800) has been capped 104 times, with his 100th Test cap occurring at the third Bledisloe Cup match in Brisbane earlier this year.

(Adam Ashley-Cooper playing for the Qantas Wallabies in 2005)

Australian Rugby Union General Manager Professional Rugby, Marketing & Operations, Rob Clarke, paid tribute to both men, however recognised the importance of continuing their legacy into 2015 and beyond.

“Adam and James have been fantastic ambassadors for our game in Australia and have been excellent role models for our sport for many years.

“They have paid an enormous amount of respect to what the game of Rugby has given them in Australia, which demonstrates the class and humility of both players.

“I am certain they will continue to do their families, state and country proud in 2015.”

Adam Ashley-Cooper, 104 Caps

Wallaby 800

Test debut Australia v South Africa at Perth, Aug 20, 2005

150 Test points

Representative Honours: Australian Under 21s 2004-2005, Australian Sevens 2004, Australia A 2006, Australian Wallabies 2005-present

Senior Tours: UK, Ireland & Italy 2006, RWC (France) 2007, Hong Kong & Europe 2008, Japan & Europe 2009, Hong Kong & Europe 2010, RWC (New Zealand) 2011, England & Wales 2011, Europe 2012, UK/Europe 2013, UK/Europe 2014.

James Horwill, 58 Caps

Wallaby 819

Test debut Australia v Fiji at Perth, Jun 9, 2007

30 Test points

Representative Honours: Queensland Schools, Queensland Under 19s 2004, Australian Under 21s 2005-2006, Australia A 2006, Australian Wallabies 2006 -

Senior Tours: UK, Ireland & Italy 2006, Hong Kong & Europe 2008, Japan & Europe 2009, RWC (New Zealand) 2011, England & Wales 2011, UK/Europe 2013, UK/Europe 2014.