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ESPN staff
Israel Folau will return to rugby in 2022 after signing with Japanese Top League club NTT Communications Shining Arcs.
The code-hopper, who was recently cleared to play rugby league for Southport Tigers on the Gold Coast, was unveiled as one of the Arcs’ new signings on Monday. Folau will play under sacked Waratahs coach Rob Penney, who has returned to the club as director of rugby.
Folau had been playing for Catalans Dragons in the Super League last year, but returned home at the end of 2020 and later had to seek a release to be eligible to play for Southport.
Folau has not played rugby since he was sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 following anti-gay social media posts.
The veteran Test fullback then sued the governing body for wrongful dismissal, with the two parties later reaching a financial settlement. through mediation.
Folau will be joined at NTT by Maori All Blacks and Blues No.10 Otere Black.