Rugby:In the interest of playing for the Wallabies, Rocky Elsom has reluctantly decided to leave European champions Leinster and return home at the request of the Australian Rugby Union (ARU).

The ARU insisted the highly influential backrow must return Down Under and play for an Australian franchise club if he wants to be considered for Australia for the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.

"I loved my time at the club (Leinster) and feel very fortunate to have been part of a great team and such a successful season,” said Elsom.

"My career in the near future is in Australia with the Wallabies, but I can't say enough how much I've appreciated the support of the Leinster public and the team at Leinster."

Michael Cheika said Elsom was reluctant to leave the province but the Leinster coach fully understood the player’s predicament.

"Rocky really wanted to stay at Leinster and also represent his country in Test match rugby - which is the highest honour for any player,” said Chieka, who was fortunate to have players like Elsom during their winning European Cup campaign.

“Up until today we had been negotiating with the ARU to secure this scenario but unfortunately the ARU would not allow it and told him that to play for the Wallabies he had to be playing with an Australian franchise.

"Rocky's desire to play Test rugby has to be respected and we wish him well with that and thank him for his contribution to the club and all its supporters.

"We hope to see him back in the Leinster blue one day."