Brumbies flanker David Pocock will be staying in Australia until at least the 2019 World Cup.

The new deal will see the 27-year-old take a sabbatical during 2017 before returning to the Brumbies ahead of the 2018 Super Rugby season.

‘I’m excited to commit to Australian rugby until the end of 2019,’ Pocock said. ‘I really appreciate the willingness the ARU and Brumbies have shown in allowing me to weigh up my desire to be available for selection leading into the next World Cup against my longevity in the game and pursuing interests outside the sport.’

Pocock has made 22 Super Rugby appearances for the Brumbies since joining from the Force in 2013. Injuries have kept him sidelined for much of his Brumbies career, but on his return in 2015 he again proved why he is one of the best in the world as he helped take the Brumbies to the Super Rugby semi-finals and the Wallabies to the World Cup final.

Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham expressed his delight at the flanker's long-term commitment to the club.

‘We’ve seen over the past 12 months just how valuable he is to the Brumbies and Wallabies both on and off the field. He has been with the Brumbies since 2013 and has fought through the toughest parts of his career with this club.’

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