Folau’s bid to play league in the sin-bin
International Federation denies giving any permission to take part in the Oceania Cup
Banned rugby star Israel Folau is planning on making a return to international league with Tonga, but the Rugby League International Federation had denied it has given permission for him to play.
Rugby Australia terminated Folau’s five-year contract in May after ruling he breached its code of conduct with his contentious social media posts. He has been a high-profile absentee from the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
A statement released by the Tongan National Rugby League chairman George Koloamatangi on Monday indicated the 30-year-old Folau and his younger brother, John Folau, would play in the Oceania Cup in New Zealand against Britain on October 26 and against Australia on November 2.
The statement said the Folau brothers had registered with the Tongan NRL and “are eligible to play international rugby league fixtures”.
But the RLIF said it had not been formally asked to consider Folau’s return.
“The Rugby League International Federation is aware of a media release issued by Tonga National Rugby League stating that Israel Folau has been ‘approved’ by the RLIF to represent Tonga in international matches,” it said in a statement. “That statement is incorrect. The RLIF has not been formally asked to consider this matter.”
Folau is taking legal action against Rugby Australia, alleging restraint of trade over his ban from Super Rugby and international rugby.
The National Rugby League, which governs league in Australia, has previously said it would not re-register Folau because of his rugby ban.
Israel Folau played for the Storm and Broncos in the NRL. He represented Australia in league before a stint playing Australian rules football and eventually rugby.
Tonga coach Frank Endacott welcomed the potential selection of the Folau brothers for the international matches.
“These guys are great footballers and bring size, pace and skill to the team,” Endacott said. “They will make a huge impact in the team and provide exciting attack options all over the park.
“This will be great boost to the internationals, and I can’t wait to see the crowd support that this will generate,” he said.
The Tongan NRL statement sparked immediate headlines in the Australian media, where Folau’s ban has polarised opinion.
In a social media post, Folau listed gay people among a group of sinners whom he said would face damnation unless they repented.
Folau, born in Australia to Tongan parents, was an undisputed star in his 73 test matches for the Wallabies after joining rugby in 2013. He has the record for most tries by any player in Super Rugby.