Israel Folau
Waratahs Rugby and the Australian Rugby Union have confirmed the re-signing of fullback Israel Folau on a 3-year flexible contract which will keep him in Australian rugby until at least 2018.
The 26 year-old joined the Waratahs for the 2013 season, making an immediate impact to the side with his impressive speed and agility.
In just his 2nd year in the code, he was named 2014 Australian Super Rugby Player of the Year after an outstanding season in which he scored 12 tries in 14 matches and was an integral member of the title-winning team.
A key member of the team’s leadership group, Folau was named as vice-captain for the 1st time in 2015, and held the role for 5 matches.
2016 Waratahs head coach Daryl Gibson said he was pleased that Folau had committed to stay in Australian rugby.
“Israel is one of the most talented rugby players in the world at the moment, and we are delighted that he will be with us here at the Waratahs for the next 3 years,” Gibson said.
“His performances on the field are consistently outstanding, and his professionalism and attitude set an example for the whole team.
“It’s so refreshing to see a player who is so celebrated for his talent but has stayed so humble and grounded – he is a true role model for those around him.”
The hard-running fullback’s exciting brand of rugby has earned him a number of accolades in his 1st 3 seasons, but Gibson says his best is yet to come.
“Israel is obviously an extremely skilful player already, but his game is still developing and improving – so it will be exciting to see it evolve over the next 3 years,” Gibson concluded.
Israel Folau will join Japanese club NTT-Docomo Red Hurricanes later this year.
Folau will play for the Docomo Red Hurricanes in the 2015 / 2016 season but will return to play Super Rugby for the Waratahs early next year.
Folau will join Springboks Eben Etzebeth and Handré Pollard at the Red Hurricanes.
The Bok duo, who were earlier confirmed as signings by the Japanese club, will also return in time for the 2016 Super Rugby competition.