French international Chabal confirms move to Australia
FORMER France international Sebastien Chabal has confirmed he will move to Australia to play Super Rugby in the coming weeks.
The 34-year-old, who was released by Top 14 club Racing-Metro last month after falling out with coach Pierre Berbizier, revealed his next move on Tuesday.
"I'm going to play in Australia soon," Chabal told French TV channel RMC.
The bearded cult figure held talks with English clubs Harlequins and London Wasps before deciding to head Down Under, although it remains unclear which Australian franchise he will link with, especially as many have their marquee positions sewn up.
The physical number eight, who can also play lock, would be a handy addition for all five franchises, with the Melbourne Rebels arguably the front runners to secure his services.
The youthful Brumbies could also use a player of Chabal's experience, however captaincy contender Ben Mowen is already at the franchise meaning the Frenchman would have to play out of position at lock.
The Reds, Waratahs and Force all boast Wallabies in the number eight spot, with Radike Samo, Wycliff Palu and Ben McCalman all definite starters for their respective franchises when fit.
Chabal will join countryman Frederic Michalak as the only other Frenchman in the Super Rugby competition.
Michalak currently plies his trade for South Africa franchise the Sharks but will return to France with Toulon at the end of the season.
