Sean McMahon

Surgery to prevent McMahon playing for Sunwolves

RUGBY.com.au revealed last year McMahon had signed a one-year deal with the Sunwolves for 2019, which all-but ruled out the 26-Test backrower playing for the Wallabies at the World Cup.

McMahon later confirmed he'd signed to play for the Sunwolves but the deal was dependent on a medical.

The 24-year-old picked up a lisfranc injury in his foot playing for Suntory in the Top League competition in Japan, and though he returned late in the season and played in a losing Grand Final side, McMahon's injury continued to be an issue.

McMahon signs with Sunwolves, World Cup hopes fade

The 24-year-old has not played for the Wallabies since their heavy loss at the hands of Scotland on last year's Spring Tour, after which he joined Suntory in the Top League.

With Japan hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup, however, the surrounding Top League seasons were drastically shortened - leaving a window for Australian players to return home for a Super Rugby season and a potential World Cup tilt.

The Reds, Rebels and even the Force approached McMahon but RUGBY.com.au can reveal he turned his back on all offers to sign for the Sunwolves for the 2019 Super Rugby season.