Springboks Stars Sign for R360 Rebel League
The new rugby league, R360, is moving forward with its ambitious plans. According to reports, it has secured the signing of four prominent Springboks players, propelling the competition towards its goal of having 200 players in the men’s category. The competition has signed legally binding pre-contractual agreements with around 160 players from around the world, including figures from Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL). Interest in the league has skyrocketed following the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia. Although it has not been confirmed that Cheslin Kolbe is among the South African internationals who have signed, it is reported that the players are “four of the highest-profile Springboks”. In addition, it is said that ten English international players, who have represented their country in the last year, have also signed conditional contracts. Although no signatures from current All Blacks have been recorded, Ardie Savea remains a target. Several Wallabies have been contacted, with many showing interest. However, some, like Fraser McReight and Len Ikitau, are reported to have rejected offers. Welsh winger Louis Rees-Zammit, after his time in the NFL, is reportedly seeking a one-year contract with a club, which would allow him to consider a contract with R360 next year.
An external source also commented:At this stage, we’ve had conversations with R360. I think a lot of people have had conversations with R360 and we don’t have a lot of detail.
Phil Waugh
Most of the signings come from Argentina, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, as well as All Blacks players residing outside of New Zealand. The young Wallabies talent, Max Jorgensen, who stood out against the Lions, is also in the spotlight. Meanwhile, the NRL continues to be a significant hunting ground for talent. Jye Gray, a young prospect from the South Sydney Rabbitohs, is the latest to be linked with the rebel league. He has reportedly been offered more than $920,000 to make the switch to rugby. He joins figures like Kalyn Ponga, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, and Ryan Papenhuyzen, who have also been linked to the league. Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett recently warned the NRL about the threat R360 poses to the league.I think this is a plane that is going to take off. Whether it stays in the air or not is the next thing.
The NRL is the toughest competition in the world with the best athletes.
Wayne Bennett
We are absolutely under threat. We cannot ignore it.
Wayne Bennett
I don’t know how to fight it, but I will say this: the game needs to come together as soon as possible in terms of the CEOs and the game itself. Let’s talk about what’s going on out there.
Wayne Bennett
Let’s have the conversation we need to have with each other and discuss how we stop it, what do we do?
Wayne Bennett