Hayne returns to rugby league in surprising new role

Jarryd Hayne has returned to rugby league and has joined Fiji in a mentorship role for the upcoming end-of-season Pacific Championship tournament.

The move has been approved by the NRL and could serve as a stepping stone for the former fullback to more important positions in the game.

It will be Hayne’s first involvement in the sport in which he has made his name since he was arrested and jailed on sexual assault charges in 2023.

Following a successful appeal, Hayne had his conviction overturned in June this year.

The 36-year-old has not featured in rugby league since his initial arrest in 2018.

“Yesterday on the way to the airport, (we) were watching that ’08 (World Cup) documentary following us in the village,” Hayne told reporters in Suva on Monday.

“It has been a long journey…16 to 17 years. From army barracks till now we have been staying in five star hotels.

“We have come a long way. Always nice to reminisce.”

Hayne has also been joined in the camp by Michael Jennings, who is expected to make his Fiji debut.

The Sydney Roosters center has previously played for Tonga and Australia but is eligible to play for Bati through his father.

“I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to connect to my father’s legacy,” Jennings said.

Fiji will host PNG on 19 October and then welcome the Cook Islands in Suva on 26 October, with wins in both of their Pacific Bowl games ensuring they reach the Pacific Championship promotion play-offs.

with AAP