Jarryd Hayne has rejoined the rugby league scene, assuming a mentoring role with the Vodafone Fiji Bati as they prepare for the Pacific Championship. Reports indicate that Hayne will collaborate closely with players such as Michael Jennings, Sunia Turuva, Viliame Kikau, and Maika Sivo, among others.
Having arrived in Fiji, Hayne was seen participating in training at Suva’s Albert Park on Monday. Although he has ruled out a return to active play, he is stepping into this mentorship role after previously representing Fiji on the international stage.
This marks Hayne’s first involvement in rugby league since 2018. Fiji’s coach, Wise Kativerata, who once played alongside Hayne’s father, Manoa Thompson, reached out to Hayne after his release from prison to ensure his well-being.
Hayne spent nearly two years incarcerated but was released in June after successfully appealing a rape conviction. Kativerata shared that he contacted Hayne to check on him and eventually discussed the need for support in Fiji’s rugby league. He extended an invitation for Hayne to assist with the team, recognizing its potential benefits for both Hayne and the players.
Initially, Hayne thought Kativerata was joking, but given his significant achievements in rugby league and his Fijian heritage, he agreed to take part. Kativerata noted that many players in the Fiji squad admire Hayne’s on-field prowess, with Hayne having played 214 NRL games and represented Fiji in 10 Tests.
Fiji’s upcoming match is against Papua New Guinea, scheduled for Saturday night.