Western Force coach Simon Cron is "100 per cent" confident Carlo Tizzano is keen to stay in Perth as the star flanker weighs up the biggest decision of his rugby career.
Tizzano has been in white-hot form this Super Rugby Pacific campaign, scoring a competition-leading 10 tries to set a new Force season record.
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The 25-year-old also leads the competition this year for tackles (108), and will be aiming to add to his growing reputation when he fronts up for Saturday's vital match against the Highlanders in Perth.
Tizzano, who made his Wallabies debut last year, comes out of contract at the end of the season.
The tackling machine has reportedly been offered a life-changing deal to play in Japan, and has an offer on the table from Rugby Australia and the Force.
If Tizzano chases the money in Japan, it could close the door on him for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Cron is optimistic Tizzano will stay in his hometown of Perth.
"I'm 100 per cent sure he wants to stay, and it's just him working through it," Cron said on Friday.
"He's got a lovely partner and he comes from here, and they'll work through their process.
"Carlo is a great man. We love having him in our environment.
"He's got a contract from us and Rugby Australia on the table, so I'm sure he's just going through his process at the moment.
"He likes being in our environment and we like having him. So those two things are the most important."
Last week's heartbreaking 28-24 loss to the Reds in Queensland means the Force (3-4) enter the current round in sixth spot on 15 points.
The Highlanders (2-4) are just three points further behind and have a game in hand, meaning the Force can ill afford to lose if they want to reach the finals for the first time.
"It's a critical game. It's a double pointer really," Cron said.
"They (the Highlanders) thrive off chaos.
"They love to counter attack - a lot of tries come from counter attack. They will quick throw, quick tap. They're a very good side."
While Tizzano has been earning widespread praise for his exploits this season, prop Tom Robertson has also been in the spotlight this week after his stunning 45m run to the line against the Reds.
"He's living in a dream world," Cron said with a laugh.
