Controversial cross-code rugby star Israel Folau will return to rugby league for the first time in six years after becoming one of many former Super League players set to feature in a Nines tournament down under.

The Nines Premier League is a different type of rugby league that, as the name suggests, sees nine players take to the field at any one time. ‘Bonus tries’ can be scored if the ball if touched down under the sticks and drop goals are used for conversions rather than kicking the ball off the tee.

Folau last played league in 2020 with the Catalans Dragons. Since then, he has participated in Japanese Rugby Union. A shock NRL return came around earlier this year with his management in talks with Wests Tigers over a ‘train and trial’ deal, however nothing ever came to fruition.

Folau, 37, will take part in the 2026-2027 competition, which takes place over the winter, alongside some faces very familiar to Super League. He will play for the ‘EZ Squad’.

With former Catalans, Huddersfield and Castleford back-rower Kenny Edwards among the coaching staff, the former Australian international will partner ex-Hull FC winger Fetuli Talanoa and former Hull KR and current Cook Islands World Cup player Brad Takairangi.

Former St Helens Grand Final winner Zeb Taia is another ex-Super League representative, as are Sam Kasiano and Tyrone Roberts.

Other familiar faces include Tim Lafai and Ethan Clark-Wood who will feature for the Campbelltown Saints in the same competition, whilst former London playmaker Corey Norman will feature for ‘Legacy’.

Andrew and David Fifita, as well as Blake Austin, feature for the ‘United SC’ side in 2025-2026, whilst former Catlans and Australia half-back James Maloney played for the Southern Sharks.

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