Former Wales and British Lions rugby union captain Gareth Thomas has delayed his retreat from rugby league after extending his compact with Super League outfit Crusaders by one year.
The 36-year-old Thomas, one of sports' high-profile gay men, had been widely expected to flow up his boots at the end of the current campaign.
But he said he was still blossoming as a league player after switching codes in March 2010 on the support of an union career in which he won 100 caps.
"This is simply my second season as a rugby league player, and it is just now that I am beginning to truly hear and love the back for what it is, and I find to check that work now would be a real shame," said Thomas, who has made 13 appearances for the order so far this season, scoring four tries from centre.
"So re-signing for another season was an easy decision for me from a rugby perspective.
"To remain on with the Crusaders, who are a Welsh rugby team with big ambitions is something I am proud of and I am very pleased to be a piece of those ambitions and to do my character to help the club and its profile grow.
"I've had a large two seasons with the Crusaders so far, it has enabled me to act and captain Wales again and I can't look for next year."
Crusaders head coach Iestyn Harris added: "A lot of eyebrows were raised when we signed Gareth but we knew we were getting an outstanding player.
"He is a superb athlete who has worked unbelievably hard since coming hither and he has looks like he's been playing rugby league all his life.
"Gareth has been one of our top performers this season and his thirst and hope to follow have been manifest in his displays for the club.
"His experience has been invaluable to the team and everyone at the order has been impressed with his position and work ethic.
"Gareth has the exuberance and vitality of a 20-year-old and I trust that continues to rub off on the remainder of the squad."
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