NSW Waratahs officials are hoping captain Phil Waugh's decision to re-sign will prompt a number of his colleagues to do likewise before they head to South Africa this weekend.

The flanker has signed up for two more years but a number of other senior Waratahs have yet to pledge their allegiance beyond this season.

Prop Al Baxter is among those yet to commit while NSW are still pursuing the signature of former flanker Rocky Elsom who is currently playing in Ireland.

Waugh and Waratahs coach Chris Hickey hoped the skipper's decision might be the catalyst that prompted undecided Waratahs to stick to the Sydney-based franchise.

"I think perhaps it gives some players a great deal of confidence to also commit to the future given that Phil has made that commitment," Hickey said.

"Hopefully in regards to other players who might have 10 per cent doubt in their minds, I think once we get this sort of commitment from someone like Phil, I think that probably takes away that 10 per cent doubt they had."

NSW rugby union chief executive Jim L'Estrange was aiming to pin down a few more players before this weekend.

"I think hopefully we can get more signings before the boys get on a plane to South Africa," he said.

L'Estrange said re-signing Waugh had been a major priority and the captain said he would be doing his best to try and sway uncommitted team-mates.

"I've spoken to a fair few guys off contract as well at the moment and I guess trying to influence their decision in staying," Waugh said.

"Hopefully myself staying has got a positive influence on those guys.

"I truly believe that we've got the nucleus of a very good squad here at NSW and it's just a matter of keeping the squad together and moving forward."

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