By Sam Ryan

In the end, Israel Folau’s decision was simple.

“First and foremost I really enjoy playing the game and that’s why I decided to go another three more years,” Folau said at a press conference today.

Australian rugby’s marquee man will remain a Waratah and Wallaby until at least the end of 2018 after turning down lucrative deals both overseas and in rugby league.

In front of a packed press conference, ARU representatives could barely contain their excitement as Folau spoke proudly of his time in the 15-man game and his hopes and dreams for the future.

Whilst the humble 26 year-old admitted a World Cup and success at Test level was firmly in his sights, he said the ultimate goal was to fulfil his potential as an athlete.

“It really came down to what I enjoy and that is playing the game and everything it brings both on and off the field,” he said.

“My first priority is to better myself as a rugby player. That’s all I want to do is achieve the highest that I can possibly get to.”

Seated directly beside Folau, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika looked just as pleased as his ARU colleagues.

“I haven’t really had to coach him too much to be honest, it’s pretty easy. He’s on autopilot most of the time.”

Cheika admitting Folau’s presence off the field is just as valuable to Australian rugby as it is on the field.

“I see my own kid, driving me mad running up and down the corridor pretending to be Israel Folau and I think that’s really important for the game. That we have guys that young kids want to get out and watch and then want to be like when they grow up.”

“Israel is that guy, both on and off the field.”

Whilst the details are yet to be finalised, Folau will play two seasons abroad during his three-year ‘flexible’ contract.

“My priority was for my Waratahs and ARU stuff to be sorted first before looking at any of that,” Folau said.

Cheika indicated he expected Folau to utilise the short Japanese season following this year’s World Cup, but said he isn’t concerned about player burn out in the long run.

“We are investing in the correct management of that,” the coach said.

“We’ll work hard with the Super Rugby clubs as well to make sure time is managed, whether that be training or playing time, so that we are all getting the benefit in the end.”

Folau said despite next year’s Olympics, Rugby 7’s wasn’t currently on his radar and whilst he’d been offered the opportunity to return to rugby league, his mind is solely focussed on the game they play in heaven.

“I haven’t even thought of it. The next few years, I’m really excited about and that is playing rugby union. Other than that, I’m not thinking about anything else.

“This is the longest I’ve ever been at a club or in a game, so it’s a really exciting time for me and I’m looking forward to working with both the Waratahs and Wallabies.”

So are we Israel, so are we.