Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Israel Folau has been linked with a surprise return to the NRL more than a decade after last playing in the competition, with reports suggesting the former dual code international has been offered a train and trial opportunity with the Wests Tigers. The 37 year old has not played in the NRL since leaving the Brisbane Broncos in 2010, but speculation has emerged that he is being considered for a late career comeback.
The development comes via reports from Sydney radio that Folau’s management has approached the Tigers as he explores options to finish his career back in rugby league.
Tigers reportedly approached over training deal
According to reports, Folau’s management has made contact with Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall regarding a potential pathway back into the NRL.
The proposed arrangement is believed to be a train and trial deal, which could be completed ahead of roster deadlines.
While no formal agreement has been confirmed, the suggestion is that Folau is being floated as an experienced option for a club looking to add depth and leadership.
The Tigers have not publicly commented on the speculation.
If pursued, the move would represent one of the most unexpected player returns in recent NRL memory given Folau long absence from the competition.
Long gap since last NRL appearance
Folau last played in the NRL in 2010 with the Brisbane Broncos after beginning his professional career with Melbourne Storm.
He later switched codes to Australian rules football, joining Greater Western Sydney as a marquee AFL recruit, where he played 13 matches across two seasons.
Following his AFL stint, he transitioned to rugby union and became a Wallabies international before later representing Tonga.
In 2020 he briefly returned to rugby league with French club Catalans Dragons before continuing his rugby union career in Japan with Urayasu D Rocks.
Despite his time away from the NRL, Folau remains one of the most recognisable figures in Australian sport due to his cross code career.
Coaching decision looms for Benji Marshall
Any potential move would require approval from Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall, who has been linked to discussions regarding the proposed arrangement.
Marshall is continuing to shape his roster as the club looks to improve competitiveness in upcoming seasons.
A train and trial opportunity would allow the club to assess Folau fitness and form before considering a full contract offer.
The Tigers are expected to weigh up experience against squad balance as they evaluate whether such a move fits their long term direction.
Career defined by multiple codes
Folau sporting career has spanned rugby league, Australian rules football and rugby union at professional level.
He emerged as one of the most highly rated young rugby league players during his early years at Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos.
His switch to AFL was one of the highest profile code changes in Australian sport history, although his time in the league was brief.
He later established himself as a rugby union international with the Wallabies and Tonga, adding another dimension to his multi code career.
A return to the NRL would add another chapter to one of the most unusual sporting journeys in modern Australian sport.
Uncertainty over playing future
While speculation continues, Folau current playing status remains in rugby union in Japan.
No official confirmation has been provided regarding retirement plans or a confirmed switch back to rugby league.
For now, the reports remain centred on preliminary discussions and potential interest rather than a completed deal.
Any decision would likely depend on fitness, timing and whether an NRL club is willing to take on a veteran player after a long absence from the competition.