Kangaroos enforcer Josh Canham dismissed interest from European juggernauts to stay in Australia as he set his sights on a Rugby World Cup spot on home soil.
He was already set for the 2026 season and signed a one-year contract extension with the Queensland Reds after earning his first starting chance for Australia against Japan in October.
That gave the 24-year-old hope of a consistent run in the golden jumper, enough to spurn interest from French Rugby.
Josh Canham in action for the Queensland Reds.Credit: Getty Images
Canham played his first season with the Reds last year after the fall of the Melbourne Rebels and led his new club in wins and losses, finishing second in total games behind new captain Fraser McReight only.
Despite only making two appearances for Australia, the 202cm forward will have one more campaign to impress under Queensland coach Les Kiss before the latter takes over the reins for the Wallabies at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
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Canham said the opportunities to wear the national colors – in the lead-up to next year’s World Cup – provided the most tempting carrot to turn down France’s offers.
“If I left too soon with everything to play for in Australia, I would never forgive myself,” he said.
“I was very proud to put on the gold jersey and run as a starter for the first time in Tokyo. I felt I left a lot, how much more I can offer, because I had to retire early.” [after a head knock].
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