The Australian Rugby Union has taken quick steps to stem a mass player exodus according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
"The Sun-Herald revealed two weeks ago that some of the code's biggest names - including Matt Giteau, Dean Mumm, Luke Burgess, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Drew Mitchell and Stephen Moore - were on the verge of finalising deals with clubs in France. With these clubs looking to finalise their rosters unusually early in mid-February, ARU officials were caught on the hop during their annual holidays.
"But The Sun-Herald can reveal ARU chief executive John O'Neill and Wallabies coach Robbie Deans have been holding meetings thick and fast as pressure mounts on officials to secure the bulk of the youthful playing roster - with most off-contract after this year's World Cup - before it affects the Wallabies' World Cup preparation.
"As reported, Stephen Moore had all but agreed to join Paris's Racing Metro a fortnight ago, but a late play by the Brumbies and ARU have helped the Wallabies secure their first re-signing victory."
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