Rugby Australia Rules Folau Ineligible for Lions Clash

Israel Folau expressed his disappointment after Rugby Australia (RA) CEO Phil Waugh ruled him ineligible to play against the British & Irish Lions later this year. Folau, who previously played for the Wallabies, had hoped to feature in the combined Australia-New Zealand XV but was informed by Waugh that his switch to Tonga and his current play in Japan disqualified him from selection. Despite earlier indications from Waugh that he might be considered, Folau was ultimately told that discussions about his inclusion were not valid. He emphasized that he would not have publicly pursued this opportunity had he known he was ineligible. Folau's past controversies, including a high-profile sacking for homophobic comments, continue to overshadow his rugby career. The upcoming match will showcase a unique blend of First Nations and Pasifika players against the Lions, an event that occurs only once every 12 years.