Israel Folau to make Super League debut for Catalans against Castleford

Israel Folau will make his Super League debut on Saturday after his controversial signing for Catalans Dragons.

The first appearance of Folau, 30, has hogged the sport’s headlines since Catalans announced the signature of the former rugby union international, who has not played professional sport since being sacked by Rugby Australia following homophobic social media posts last year.

Folau, was not selected for Catalans’ opener against Wakefield – which was subsequently called off due to Storm Ciara – having only arrived in the south of France days before the game. Earlier this week the Dragons coach, Steve McNamara, had said he wanted to wait until he was sure Folau was ready for his return to the sport.

It is almost 10 years since Folau last played rugby league for Brisbane Broncos. He then played two years of AFL before switching codes again to play rugby union.

More details to follow