Ex-Wallaby Israel Folau returning to international rugby with Tonga

Israel Folau had his Australia contract terminated in 2019 following a controversial social media post.

Israel Folau wearing Australia rugby uniform

Israel Folau has been named in Tonga's squad for the Pacific Nations Cup tournament in July. Source: AAP

Israel Folau will make his return to international rugby union with Tonga three years after his Wallabies contract was terminated over a controversial social media post.

The 33-year-old outside back was named in Tonga's squad on Friday for the Pacific Nations Cup tournament in July and a playoff for the 2023 World Cup in France.

Folau, an evangelical Christian, had his Australia contract torn up in 2019 after he posted a meme on social media which said "hell" awaits homosexuals and other groups.

He then sued governing body Rugby Australia for unlawful termination seeking $14 million in damages.
The case was settled out of court, with Rugby Australia and Folau issuing a joint statement and apology in late 2019.

Folau continued his professional rugby career, taking up a contract with Japanese side Shining Arcs last year.

Tonga will meet Pacific Nations Cup hosts Fiji, Samoa and an Australia 'A' team at the 2-16 July tournament in Fiji.
A week later, they face the winner of the Asia Rugby Championship in a one-match playoff to decide who will join South Africa, Ireland, Scotland and a team from the Europe 2 zone in Pool B at the World Cup.

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Source: AAP, SBS


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