Matt Giteau could play for the Wallabies at this year's World Cup after the Australian Rugby Union relaxed its eligibility rules.

To be eligible, overseas-based players must have earned at least 60 Test caps and have held a professional contract with the ARU for at least seven years.

Those playing offshore who commit to returning to Vodacom Super Rugby can play for the Wallabies the year before they return.

'I miss the big games, the big atmospheres, but the rules are there for a reason,' Giteau, who has played 92 Tests, told The Times of London on Monday. 'They need changing, but if it was something the coaches were interested in, then I'd love to play for my country again.'

Giteau's Toulon teammate, Drew Mitchell, will also now be available for the Wallabies again as he has played 63 Tests.

Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images