Former NRL player Jarryd Hayne may be on the verge of a dramatic return to rugby league, as Wise Kativerata, the coach of Fiji’s national team, has initiated talks about Hayne joining the squad for the upcoming Pacific Championships.
Having last played in a competitive match back in 2018, the prospect of Hayne’s comeback is sparking significant excitement among fans. Kativerata has openly expressed that the door is open for the 36-year-old to step back into 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 a boost for the team.”
Hayne, released from prison in June after having his conviction overturned, has been training with sprinting coach Roger Fabri as he looks to return to professional sports. “Jarryd is an elite athlete,” Fabri commented. “He is one guy you can never, ever disregard when he puts his mind to something.”
However, the process for Hayne to represent Fiji could involve complexities and potential controversy, as he currently lacks an NRL contract. His participation in the Pacific Championships would require approval from the ARL Commission.
Once a player for both Fiji and Australia internationally, Hayne also competed in Rugby Sevens for Fiji in 2016, making him a valuable addition should he decide to join the national team.