Bernard Foley may have the 2027 Rugby World Cup in the back of his mind, but his immediate challenge is clear: help turn the NSW Waratahs into a force again.

With his 37th birthday approaching, Foley has returned to the Waratahs alongside veteran halfback Nick Phipps, 35, for what could be their final campaign with the club.

Their reunion comes 13 years after the pair helped guide NSW to the franchise’s only Super Rugby championship in 2014.

For Foley, the comeback is about more than nostalgia. It is an opportunity to work with one of the most exciting young groups in Australian rugby while keeping his own World Cup ambitions alive.

The Waratahs have missed the Super Rugby finals in each of the past two seasons, but the squad contains plenty of attacking talent. Wallabies star Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii remains the headline act, while Max Jorgensen provides another explosive option and former NRL player Angus Crighton is set to add further attacking threat at inside centre.

Foley believes that collection of talent was a major reason behind his decision to return.

The veteran playmaker has been impressed by the athleticism throughout the squad, including among the forwards, and by the commitment shown by the team despite its recent struggles.

Rather than trying to overhaul the young players’ games, Foley sees his role as helping them make the most of what they already possess.

That approach could be particularly important for Suaalii. Since switching codes from the NRL, the 23-year-old has moved between outside centre and fullback for both the Wallabies and Waratahs.

Foley sees no reason why the versatile star cannot continue to thrive in multiple positions.

His priority is simple: give Suaalii the freedom to play.

For Foley, the path to the 2027 World Cup therefore begins with the Waratahs. If he can help unlock the team’s young attacking core and rediscover the form that made NSW champions in 2014, another opportunity with the Wallabies could follow.

The veteran’s World Cup ambitions may be looking two years ahead, but the first test of whether he belongs in Australia’s plans will come much sooner — with the Waratahs.