R360 League Recruits Hit With 10-Season Ban from NRL
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck gained 20 international appearances for New Zealand before switching allegiance to the Samoan team.
The NRL's governing body has stated that participants who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be banned for a decade.
The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.
Prominent rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally.
Representing Samoa the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.
Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be considering joining the new competition.
A group of rugby union nations, among them Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in international matches.
“We've listened to our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC head Peter V'Landys.
“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.
“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.
“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”
R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and supported by commercial backers.
After the potential union prohibitions were declared earlier, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.
“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for test matches, as included in their deals.”
R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in 2026.
