R360 League Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from NRL
The athlete earned 20 international appearances for the Kiwis before transferring loyalty to Samoa.
Rugby league's authority has declared that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for a decade.
The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a condensed fixture list.
Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.
Representing Samoa the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360.
Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be considering joining R360.
Several leading union teams, such as Australia, recently imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in international matches.
“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said the league's head V'Landys.
“Regrettably, there will continually be organizations that try to exploit our game for potential financial gain.
“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while profiting themselves.
“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”
The organization is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.
Following the potential rugby union sanctions were announced last week, it said: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the international rugby schedule.
“The event is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”
The breakaway group will seek approval for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.
