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Israel Folau returning to Rugby League

Israel Folau is set to return to Rugby League with Tonga. The controversial figure intends to pl...



Israel Folau returning to Rugb...
Rugby

Israel Folau returning to Rugby League

Israel Folau is set to return to Rugby League with Tonga.

The controversial figure intends to play an end-of-season Test for the Pacific nation next month.

The Chairman of the Tongan National Rugby League, Mr George Koloamatangi, has announced that Folau, and his brother John, will pull on the red of Tonga in the Oceania Cup.

The former Wallaby had his multimillion-dollar contract terminated by Rugby Australia over homophobic comments in May of this year.

In a social media post he paraphrased a Bible passage, saying "drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolaters" would go to hell unless they repented.

Folau is currently in the midst of a legal battle over that decision but will play rugby league in the meantime, with Tonga set to play Great Britain in Hamilton on October 26, before meeting Australia at Eden Park on November 2.

In a Tonga Rugby League statement today Folau expressed his delight at the possible comeback.

"I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to represent God, my family, my heritage and the people of Tonga

"I don't want to bring any of my personal matters into this and I am grateful that the RLIF have endorsed my availability.

"What I will do now is focus on playing great rugby league and do my talking on the field."

Tongan coach Frank Endacott said he was thrilled at having the Folau brothers in his squad.

"This is great news", said Endacott. "These guys are great footballers and bring size, pace and skill to the team. 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 cant wait to see the crowd support that this will generate from our famous Mate Ma'a Tonga supporters," Endacott added.

"And it is good to see the RLIF approving these players for internationals. This is great for the game."

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Israel Folau Rugby League Tonga