Timana Tahu set for return to Parramatta

[KenyaQuin]

Timana Tahu set for return to Parramatta
Brent Read | July 22, 2009
Article from: The Australian

TIMANA Tahu is poised to end his flirtation with rugby union and make a surprise return to rugby league next season with Parramatta.

It is understood that Parramatta CEO Paul Osborne approached Tahu earlier this month about a return to the NRL and the centre has agreed a three-year contract with the Eels.

Tahu is understood to be seeking a release from the four-year deal he signed with the Australian Rugby Union at the end of 2007, believed to be worth $2 million.

However, he struggled to break into the Wallabies ranks and speculation has grown in recent weeks that a return to the NRL was on the cards.

Tahu played two seasons with the Eels before switching codes. He also played 11 games for NSW and five Tests for the Kangaroos.

[AndyS]

Well, if he does I hope the ARU takes a critical look at themselves and decides that they won't be buying in any more players. Doesn't mean they aren't welcome, but for mine they should be signed to a Super team first and only included in Wallaby considerations once they have demonstrated that they've got what it takes.

[jargan83]

$1 million for 2 years "work"

[mudskipper]

What a pity.... Is this fallout from Lote-gate? and no Australia A program 2009... The Lotus Waratahs are screwed...

[lotus flower]

we are screwed now. our 2 drawcards gone. bloody aru!!!

[sandgroperrugby]

Cross still has pass mark!!!

Although If Digby plays in 13 next year as well as he did this year Ryan will struggle for a test spot next year

[prop53]

Back to whence you came no room for you here mate.

[mudskipper]

Cross still has pass mark!!!

Although If Digby plays in 13 next year as well as he did this year Ryan will struggle for a test spot next year

Cross.... will be looking to returning to Sydney when he next gets a chance...

[sandgroperrugby]

I think Cross is signed until 2011. If he wishes to leave after that i think we have a more than capable lad that can fill the void in Cummins.

[GIGS20]

we are screwed now. our 2 drawcards gone. bloody aru!!!

Why don't you try developing some talent, rather than buying ready made?

Surely you'll get far more loyal servants to the code......Phil Waugh would be an example, now I don't usually sing the praises of Cro-Magnon, but to be fair he's a serviceable 7 who's 'ard as and has turned down (presumably) numerous offers to stay with the 'Tahs.....I can't think of a better drawcard, unless of course, you're after a quick, dirty way of getting some Mungo supporters to the game..........I don't think losing Tahu will be a problem for the 'Tahs, I mean he hardly played a game in the whole time he was there AFAIK (room to be corrected on that) and he'll free money and room in the roster for a back who will commit to the program!

[jargan83]

I heard it was a done deal on the radio this morning

[JediKnight]

No loss to Australian rugby.

[laura]

Meh!

Seems like he thought he would be a shoe-in for Wallabies, he made it in his first year and not this year so he's spat the dummy and left. Add to that he's good mate Lote's gone. I'd be thinking if Lote signs on with a league club he's likely to follow Tahu.

[jargan83]

I'd be thinking if Lote signs on with a league club he's likely to follow Tahu.

unlikely as Parramatta won't have room for Lote under the Salery Cap

[laura]

unlikely as Parramatta won't have room for Lote under the Salery Cap

He might not have a whole lot of choice after the cicumstances in which he left ARU, just depends how much he wants to play rugby again and how much they're willing to invest in a player with his history, age and current form.