As mentioned in this thread & others relating to Mark Gasnier, the imminent Super 14 signing looks to be the natural path to him having a crack at the 2011 Rugby World Cup. ( there still might be hope after that for a return to the NRL though... )
From
http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,26864445-5002381,00.html
Melbourne Rebels ready to swoop on Mark Gasnier and confirm signings
By Russell Gould
March 18, 2010
Melbourne Rebels are in the box seat to secure former NRL star Mark Gasnier, with his Australian Rugby Union deal a step closer to being finalised.
Gasnier, playing with Stade Francais in France, was contacted by Rebels coach Rod Macqueen in January and officials are privately enthusiastic about his level of interest in the new club.
But Gasnier's move back to Australia, and to Melbourne, was always going to be determined by an ARU offer which would top up any money offered by the Rebels.
While figures of $600,000 have been rumoured, ARU officials scoffed at such a high price. A more incentive-based contract with the national body is likely.
Gasnier is believed to be in Wallabies coach Robbie Deans' plans, but is not a priority until he has played some Super rugby, which makes a large base contract with the ARU unlikely.
Discussions between Gasnier's manager George Mimis and ARU officials have been continuing for some time and the fact neither party has left the table is regarded as a positive sign.
Insiders have suggested a decision from Gasnier about his next move could be made within a fortnight.
That rules out the Rebels making any announcement about Gasnier at today's Weary Dunlop rugby lunch, although some signings are set to be confirmed.
They are likely to include Queensland Reds players Richard Kingi, Adam Byrnes and Laurie Weeks, with hold-ups on several fronts preventing the Rebels naming any further players.
Rebels chief executive Brian Waldron said he remained hopeful Gasnier would choose the start-up franchise should he decide to come home.
"If Mark wants to return to Australia we think we would be the best option for him, and we think he would be a great addition to our roster," Waldron said.
