Australia have continued to tie-up members of their squad by agreeing deals with Drew Mitchell and Ben Alexander.
Chance to play the Lions key to the decision to agree new deals
Australia have continued to tie-up members of their squad for the next two years by agreeing deals with Drew Mitchell and Ben Alexander.
Winger Mitchell and prop Alexander follow Adam Ashley-Cooper and Stephen Moore in signing contract extensions with the ARU.
And the lure of the British and Irish Lions touring in 2013 has been the key decision behind the reasons to commit.
ARU chief executive John O'Neill said: "The most pleasing aspect of the past week is to hear how our leading players are still driven by the desire to make the Wallabies the best in the world, that they feel a sense of unfinished business until the goal is achieved, and that the opportunity to play against the Lions is so appealing.
"That tells me the culture around the team is strong. This is a young side, starting to taste success via the win against the All Blacks last October and the European champions France a few weeks later.
"They are ranked number two in the world but still not satisfied. I think all Australian rugby fans will be heartened by their commitment to continue improving and returning precious metal to the trophy cabinet.
"I'm delighted Drew and Ben have joined Stephen Moore and Adam Ashley-Cooper in re-committing to Australian Rugby for a further two years."
