GEORGE Hooper, who has been playing rugby in Australia and New Zealand for the best part of two years, will be back with Wellington towards the end of this month.

Hooper, a centre or winger, was a regular first team player before going travelling. “It will obviously take some time for him to settle,” said Wellington coach Allyn Chetland. “But he’s a fit lad and it will be great to have him back. It increases competition for places.”

Wellington’s players reported back for pre-season training this week keeping to the Government’s guidelines.