The ARL has shocked the rugby league world in selecting a team full of criminals as its next NRL expansion franchise.
“The NRL is very excited to announce the selection of the International Jailbirds franchise to join the competition in 2028,” began a statement from ARL headquarters.
“The Jailbirds will feature talented players who have spent time in the criminal justice system and will be sure to play a tough, uncompromising style of rugby league that will ensure they are competitive against the best players in the world.”
What might sound like an Adam Sandler movie is actually real and was strongly endorsed by the games hierarchy during the launch.
“Many rugby league fans may be surprised by the selection of a team of criminals to join the competition. However, it is our firm belief that the correctional centres in this region house an enormous amount of rugby league talent, as is evidenced by the following list of first grade players who have spent time behind bars:
Jarryd Hayne (Frownlow Medallist, 2022)
Manase Fainu (Frownlow Medallist 2021)
Chris Dawson
Craig Field
Brett Dallas
Martin Kennedy
Zane Tetevano
Russell Packer
Matt Lodge
John Elias
Daine Laurie
Paul Hayward
Gary Sullivan
Manu Vatuvei
Wes Patten
Jamil Hopoate
Chris Nahi
John Touma
Matt Seers
Joel Romelo
Anthony Watts
Jason Williams
Royce Hura
Aukuso Junior Paulo
Smokin’ Joe Kilroy
Victor Spink
Les Mara
Danny Wicks
John Ryan (RIP)
Kevin Yow Yeh (RIP)
Rick Montgomery
Arana Taumata
David Fifita
Blake Ferguson
John Tobin
The team is set to be coached by Karmichael Hunt, who recently became the first winner of The Frownlow Medal to coach an international rugby league team when he guided the Cook Islands Aitu through the Pacific Championships. He is yet to choose his assistants, but he is tipped to appoint Brett Finch, Ben Barba and Dylan Walker.
ARL bosses also assured the public there will be enough NRL players entering the criminal justice system to keep the team afloat for many years to come.
Image: Getty Images
The Frownlow Medal 