A war has erupted over Israel Folau after the NRL was accused of trying to handball the controversial cross-code star's rugby league return to Queensland officials.
Queensland Rugby League chairman Bruce Hatcher hit back at NRL CEO Andrew Abdo's claims the game was powerless to stop Folau from playing in the Intrust Super Cup.
After being sacked by Rugby Australia in 2019 following a series of social media posts, Folau signed with French Super League club Catalans.
The former Queensland Origin and Kangaroos star did not return to Catalans this year, reportedly due to family reasons.
Folau is living in Brisbane and has been spotted training in gyms on the southside as he holds out hope of being allowed to play in the NRL.