Phil Waugh, the chief executive of Rugby Australia, has dismissed any chance of the former Wallaby Israel Folau participating in this year’s British and Irish Lions tour.
In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, Folau expressed his desire to be part of the AUNZ Invitational XV set to face the Lions on July 12 at Adelaide Oval.
However, Waugh clarified that the Tongan international’s eligibility is a major hurdle.
“Essentially, once a player becomes ineligible for Australia, it affects their availability, regardless of who they are,” Waugh stated.
He added, “Regarding the First Nations and Pasifika teams, players must be part of an Australian Super Rugby squad. If there are gaps in competitiveness or player welfare, we can consider including players from Moana Pasifika and the [[Fijian] Drua].”
Rugby Australia has also confirmed that it will not take any steps to secure eligibility exemptions for Folau, who has made a name for himself in multiple sports.
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Israel Folau in action for the Wallabies in 2018 in Sydney. Getty
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