Huge concern for rugby league as rugby union raid intensifies with world’s best considering switch

In a huge blow for rugby league, the West Australian recently reported that rugby union is set to try and raid the sport for more talent in the near future.

This was echoed by ZeroTackle who reported that this raid will intensify going into the 2027 Rugby Union World Cup which will take place in Australia.

As this intensifies, Parramatta Eels star Waqa Blake was reportedly been offered to rugby union according to 100% footy.

Meanwhile according to Rugby Pass, Rugby Australia have set their sights on perhaps the world’s best player and are keen on trying to lure Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary to the 15-man code.

Losing him would perhaps be the biggest possible loss to the sport.

Hammish McLennan (Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Australian Rugby Union) said:

“Nathan Cleary was not on the original list because we thought he would be untouchable but he said he would be open to a change. I had forgotten that he had spent time in New Zealand, so he enjoys the game and understands it. Imagine him racing in front of 85,000 people wearing Wallaby Gold at France Stadium. It’s mind-blowing.

Worryingly, Cleary hasn’t shut the door on it as per Treize Mondial: “I have a lot of admiration and respect for the five-year-old players, especially those who grew up in New Zealand, it’s so huge there. I am currently quite satisfied with where I am. I may consider a change later.”

On Channel Nine, McLennan has said today that a lot of players have “reached out” over a move to Union but fortunately it seems Nelson Asofa-Solomona won’t be headed despite reports with the forward staying at the Melbourne Storm until 2027.