Israel Folau’s next club revealed – but it won’t be in Australia

Israel Folau is to return to rugby union next season with Top League side NTT Communications Shining Arcs, Sky Sports has revealed.

Folau returned to league in Australia to play for amateur side Southport Tigers alongside his brothers, but the 32-year-old will once more delve into the 15-a-side code in 2022.

The cross-code star made the headlines in 2019 when he was sacked by Rugby Australia for homophobic comments he posted on social media, but French side Catalans Dragons brought him to Super League in 2020 – amidst a barrage of opposition.

Folau registered 15 appearances for the Dragons last season and agreed to stay until the end of this year, but he has since been released after the two parties came to an agreement.