Former NRL player Jarryd Hayne could be making a dramatic return to rugby league, as Wise Kativerata, the head coach of Fiji’s national team, has begun discussions about Hayne’s potential involvement in this year’s Pacific Championships.
Hayne last played competitively in 2018, and the news of his possible comeback is creating significant interest. Kativerata has expressed that the opportunity is available for the 36-year-old to re-enter top-tier rugby league.
“The door is open for him if he wants to join,” Kativerata stated. “He is fit, but we are just waiting on his decision if he is interested, which would be beneficial for the team.”
Recently released from prison in June after his conviction was overturned, Hayne has been training with sprinting coach Roger Fabri, focusing on making a return to professional sports.
“Jarryd is an elite athlete,” Fabri remarked. “He is someone you can never disregard when he sets his mind to something.”
However, Hayne’s path to representing Fiji may face challenges, as he currently does not hold an NRL contract. He would need approval from the ARL Commission to take part in the Pacific Championships.
Having previously played for both Fiji and Australia on the international stage, as well as competing in Rugby Sevens for Fiji in 2016, Hayne is viewed as a valuable asset for the team.