Former NRL player Jarryd Hayne could be on the verge of a remarkable return to rugby league, as Fiji’s national team coach Wise Kativerata has initiated talks regarding Hayne’s potential involvement in this year’s Pacific Championships.
Hayne has not played competitively since 2018, but the prospect of his comeback is creating significant excitement within the rugby league community. Kativerata has openly expressed that the opportunity for Hayne, now 36, to re-enter the sport at a high level is available.
“The door is open for him if he wants to join,” Kativerata said, emphasizing that Hayne’s fitness is not in question. “We are just waiting on his decision if he is interested, which will be a boost for the team.”
Hayne was released from prison in June after his conviction was overturned on appeal. Since then, he has been training with sprinting coach Roger Fabri, focusing on a return to professional sports.
“Jarryd is an elite athlete,” Fabri remarked. “He is one guy you can never, ever disregard when he puts his mind to something.”
However, Hayne’s possible representation of Fiji may present complexities and controversies, particularly since he does not currently hold an NRL contract. He would need the approval of the ARL Commission to participate in the Pacific Championships.
Hayne has a history of playing for Fiji, as well as Australia on the international stage, and he participated in Rugby Sevens for Fiji in 2016, making him a valuable prospect for the team.