Tonga 'will welcome' Israel Folau

SPOTLIGHT: Controversial cross-code athlete Isreal Folau would be welcomed into Tonga's Test set-up in the lead-up to the 2023 World Cup reveals former captain Aleki Lutui.

Folau split with Australian Rugby in 2019 after he repeatedly posted what were perceived as controversial religious posts to social media platforms. He was fired and then took Rugby Australia to court and won a multi-million dollar pay out.

There have been many speculations that the 32-year-old might play Rugby League for Tonga, however, World Rugby’s change in eligibility laws means he can now return to rugby union and play Test rugby for Tonga.

And according to the Rugby Paper, Lutui admitted that Folau would be a welcome addition to Tonga’s squad for next year’s World Cup in France.

“I think Tonga will welcome back Folau, especially as his parents are from Tonga. I think he will be proud to represent the country if he is given that opportunity,” Lutui told The Rugby Paper.

“If we get all our players available, we could be a force at the 2023 World Cup. Especially if our backs put their hands up and make themselves available, I think we can compete,” he added.

“But it is all down to an individual player decision, if they make themselves available, I am sure they will give everything for our country.

“If we have the likes of Charles Piutau, Malakai Fekitoa, Ngani Laumape and Folau available it will be huge.”

Source: RugbyPaper