Rugby news | Roger Tuivasa-Sheck set to snub NRL for big money
2 min read
Any hopes NRL fans might have had of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck returning to rugby league look to have been dashed.
‘RTS’ is off-contract with New Zealand Rugby at the end of this year and is reportedly considering a move overseas if he does not re-sign.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Tuivasa-Sheck has an eye on Japan.
Watch the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season on the home of rugby, Stan Sport. All matches streaming ad free, live and on demand
Several NRL teams reportedly have tabs on the former Warriors star. However, his former club has reportedly been told a return is unlikely.
The Herald reports the team would have to « move heaven and earth to accommodate such a move. »
Tuivasa-Sheck made his NRL debut for the Roosters before becoming one of the Warriors’ most well-known players.
READ MORE: Aussie injured in ‘horrendous’ finish line crash
READ MORE: Records tumble in ‘crazy’ T20 run chase
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy stunned in remarkable 24-year first
He won the Dally M Medal in 2018 but defected to rugby union in 2022. Since then, he’s made three starts for the All Blacks and starred for the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific.
Should a deal come to fruition with a Japanese club, he would be the latest in a growing list of All Blacks players leaving for big money elsewhere.
Tuivasa-Sheck could make upwards of $1 million in Japan’s 16-week-long division one competition.
Outside of France and the United Kingdom, Japan has been a popular pick among some players for the higher pay packet on offer.
All Blacks stars Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Beauden Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Rieko Ioane, Richie Mo’unga, Sam Whitelock, and Shannon Frizell are all set to jump ship after the 2023 Rugby World Cup while David Havili and Will Jordan are also said to be considering a move.
The mass exodus from New Zealand is in stark contrast to Australia’s signing frenzy, headlined by Sydney Roosters star Joseph Suaalii.
Rugby Australia has re-signed a ton of talent, including Fraser McReight, Rob Leota, Matt Gibbon, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Angus Bell and Allan Alaalatoa.
Rugby Australia’s efforts are aided by the forthcoming British & Irish Lions series in 2025 and the home Rugby World Cup which follows in 2027.
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
