White looks to Japan for big favour over Smith - Sydney Morning Herald

"I didn't want to rush it and I didn?t think it would be fair to literally after two-three weeks start phoning and say, 'How long can I have him for'": Jake White. Photo: Getty Images

ACT Brumbies coach Jake White is waiting for the right time to open discussions with George Smith's Japanese club about extending his short-term contract in Canberra

Smith arrived at the Brumbies last month on a three-month deal and is due to return to Suntory Sungoliath for pre-season training in June. But a season-ending knee injury to David Pocock has left a hole at No.7 for the Brumbies, launching speculation Smith's stay could be extended.

White has been in South Africa for a fortnight and said he had not had any contact with Sungoliath. He said extending Smith's contract would depend on how the season panned out as the Brumbies aim to end an eight-year finals drought.

Pocock ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, leaving not just Brumbies fans but also Wallabies supporters hoping Smith remains down under.

A change in either Smith's contract or Australian Rugby Union policy could open the door for him to add to his 110 Test caps when the Wallabies take on the British and Irish Lions in June.

''I haven't [talked to Suntory] yet because, obviously, I've just got back but I'll speak to whoever I have to and see what happens,'' White said. ''But I didn't want to rush it and I didn't think it would be fair to literally after two-three weeks start phoning and say, 'How long can I have him for?'

''We'll play it from week to week, see where we end up, see how the season's panning out and I'm sure there's no reason why, if we're in the play-offs, they would stand in his way.''

White reiterated halfback Nic White and fullback Jesse Mogg would be available to play the Bulls at Canberra Stadium on Saturday night.

The duo injured their shoulders in the scintillating win over the Sharks and missed the weekend's clash against the Stormers. But the Brumbies mentor was confident they would return to the starting XV.

''Yeah I think so. Obviously they've recovered quite nicely by having that week off, so I'm hoping, all things being equal, they'll be available for selection on Saturday,'' White said. ''It's a major boost because they've been so good for us this season.''