Rugby Australia rules out Folau's return against British and Irish Lions

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh has firmly ruled out Israel Folau's participation in the upcoming matches against the British and Irish Lions, stating that he does not meet the eligibility criteria. Folau, who currently plays for the Tongan national team and a club in Japan, expressed a desire to return to Australia for the tour, specifically aiming for the combined Australia-New Zealand XV match on July 12. Waugh emphasized that the eligibility rules restrict selections to players who are eligible for Australia, effectively excluding Folau from consideration. The decision aims to avoid further controversy surrounding Folau, who was previously sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 for breaching their code of conduct with homophobic social media posts. Waugh also clarified that players for the First Nations and Pasifika team must be Australian Super Rugby squad members, further limiting Folau's chances for a return. This ruling ends speculation about Folau's comeback, ensuring the focus remains on the important rugby events ahead.