🔗 Share this article R360 Players Hit With 10-Year Exclusion from National Rugby League The rugby star gained 20 test matches for the Kiwis before transferring representation to the Samoan team. Australian rugby league's administration has stated that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 will be banned for 10 years. R360, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar. Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include multiple men's clubs and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide. Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league. Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360. Several leading union countries, such as Australia, earlier declared a ban on players joining R360 playing international matches. “We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chief the official. “Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that seek to pirate our sport for potential financial gain. “They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of talent. They only leverage the hard work of others, endangering athletes of financial loss while profiting themselves. “They are, in reality, copying the game.” The organization is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers. After the potential union bans were declared recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule. “The series is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will release all players for international matches, as included in their contracts.” The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.