Ryan Papenhuyzen, the dynamic fullback for the Melbourne Storm, is the latest rugby league star to be courted by the lucrative R360 competition. As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, Papenhuyzen recently held a significant meeting with representatives from the breakaway league while they were in Australia for the British and Irish Lions tour. With his current contract set to expire at the end of next season, the 27-year-old is seriously contemplating a possible switch to rugby union.
During his youth, Papenhuyzen played rugby union at Oakhill College before rising to prominence in the NRL, where he has established himself as one of the sport’s standout players. His manager, Clinton Schifcofske, chose not to comment on the discussions surrounding a potential switch when approached by the media.
Should a deal materialise with the R360 competition, Papenhuyzen could reportedly earn an astounding $1.5 million per season, eclipsing the highest salaries currently seen in the NRL. This follows speculation linking Roger Tuivasa-Sheck from the Warriors and Jaydn Su’A from the Dragons with moves to the same competition, indicating a growing trend of top NRL players considering transitions to the rival league.
As the landscape of rugby in Australia continues to evolve, the intrigue surrounding Papenhuyzen adds another layer of excitement for both fans and the sport.