Israel Folau Thrown Lifeline To Continue His International Career – But Not With Australia

Lifeline.

Controversial Wallabies fullback Israel Folau has been thrown a lifeline to continue his internationals career by Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu.

Folau was recently found guilty of a “high-level breach” by Rugby Australia following his homophobic post on social media, with the governing body now expected to terminated his four-year, $4million contract.

And while his Wallabies career looks set to be over regardless of his contract situation, Kefu is open to Folau putting on a Tonga jersey in the not too distant future. Folau’s parents are Tongan, but the 30-year-old would have to wait three years before declaring another nation, leaving the door open for him playing at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“Yes, definitely,” Kefu told Anthony Stewart on ABC radio when asked if he would approach Folau to play for Tonga

“I’d love that.”

“I think he would get a lot of satisfaction out of playing for Tonga. He could definitely be available for the next World Cup,”

“He could still play top level rugby between those times.”

“If he does get dismissed by Rugby Australia, he could play in top competitions like the Premiership in the UK or the Top 14 in France so there is still plenty of top level competition for him.”

“I support Israel. I don’t think anyone should be persecuted for something that he believes in,”

Global Rapid Rugby owner Andrew Forrest is also reportedly interested in recruiting Folau.

[NZ Herald]

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