Wallaby Cummins returns to Western Force from Japan
Nick Cummins on Tuesday secured a loan deal back to Super 15 club Western Force for the 2015 season, putting him back into the Wallabies frame for next year's World Cup. The winger was released from his contract by the Perth-based team in July to sign a lucrative two-year deal with Japan's West Red Sparks on compassionate grounds. The 27-year-old made the switch so he could provide financial support for his father Mark, who is battling cancer, and two other family members who have cystic fibrosis. The move away from Australia made him ineligible for Wallabies selection but the World Cup dream of the shaggy-haired Cummins, a cult figure known as the "Honey Badger", is once again alive. “I’m stoked to be back on the burst and returning to Australian rugby in 2015," he said. “Gonna be a huge year. Can’t wait to get amongst it!” He will join the Force squad at the end of the Red Sparks’ season in early 2015 and will return to the Japanese club for the 2015/2016 Top League season. “While most people are aware of Nick’s colourful personality, the character he displays in his performances on the field makes him an integral part of our team,” said Force coach Michael Foley. "His ability to lighten the mood is balanced against a fierce determination to win and play for his mates."
