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AAP
Adrian Warren
February 27, 2014, 5:18 pm
Dual international Israel Folau says a hybrid game involving both rugby codes would be successful.
AAP Dual international Israel Folau says a hybrid game involving both rugby codes would be successful.
Dual international Israel Folau is sure a hybrid game involving both rugby codes would be successful and would like to be part of the concept.
The former Queensland and Kangaroos star is fast developing into one of the most successful code hoppers in history.
He won just about every honour in a stellar league career and has picked up numerous awards in little more than a year in union, following an unproductive stint in Australian rules.
A match between the Wallabies and the Great Britain rugby league team has been proposed for December, while speculation of a hybrid game in Australia continues.
"I think it would be a pretty good concept," the NSW Waratahs and Wallabies fullback Folau said on Thursday.
"It would certainly be good for the fans, and for them it would be interesting.
"I'm certainly up for it. I wouldn't mind being part of that.
"It would be a good test and a good challenge for the blokes from both games, to try and adapt to the two different games.
"But I think it would be a lot of fun and it will attract a lot of fans to come and watch the game."
Folau's decision to snub league and switch from the AFL to rugby union has been one of a number of blows for the 13-a-side code, which is losing some of its biggest stars to the rival rugby code.
Benji Marshall opted late last year to end his long-term association with the Wests Tigers NRL club and joined the Blues union franchise in his native New Zealand.
Sonny Bill Williams will return to union next year after two seasons back in league and South Sydney forward Sam Burgess will switch to the 13-a-side code for next year.
Folau was diplomatic about the big-name losses his original professional code of choice was suffering.
"For whatever reasons, those guys are looking at, or even thinking about coming across, they have certainly got different reasons," Folau said.
"And we see Sam Burgess deciding to come across as well. I think it's good for the game, so all the best to them in their transition."
Cronulla Sharks, NSW and Kangaroos forward Andrew Fifita is the latest league star to be linked to union.
"I think he's a great player, but they are two different games rugby league and rugby union," Folau said.
"But he's a great footballer and I'm sure if he decides to come across, he'll be good enough to go well.'
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/spo...f-hybrid-game/
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