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Latham: explained decision

I really didn't think I needed incentives to play rugby. I never have. Had I been offered the same amount of money (by the ARU) that I was on this year for the next few years, I would have definitely stayed.

Chris Latham
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Chris Latham insists his decision to join Guinness Premiership strugglers Worcester next season is not motivated by money.

Latham, 32, rejected a 'disappointing' incentive-laden contract from the Australian Rugby Union to make the move to the northern hemisphere.

The full-back will play for the Queensland Reds in the forthcoming Super 14 competition and have one season under new Wallabies coach Robbie Deans before heading to Sixways.

"They [the ARU] obviously thought I wouldn't be able to carry through for too many more years, and that's the line they have taken," said Latham, who has won 78 caps for Australia.

"I really didn't think I needed incentives to play rugby. I never have. Had I been offered the same amount of money that I was on this year for the next few years, I would have definitely stayed.

Not bitter, not angry

"But I am not bitter; I am not angry. Money is not the reason I'm quitting here - it's time to move on and set some fresh goals.

"I firmly believe I'm yet to play my best, most consistent rugby. It's quite easy to label people at 32 and say they are getting old, but I think in 'rugby' years I am very young.

"I know within myself that my body can hold up. I know I can improve and I've still got some good performances there that I'm yet to produce.

"I believe that I have a lot of good years left playing top-level rugby."

Latham is contracted to the ARU until the end of 2008 but he will reportedly be released after the Tri-Nations finishes in September, on account of his long service.

Worcester are currently bottom of the Guinness Premiership.