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Jarryd Hayne won’t be going to the Rio Olympics, after he missed the cut for Fiji’s rugby sevens squad.
In a lengthy post on Facebook, Hayne revealed he was told the bad news by coach Ben Ryan last Friday.
“Last Friday I had a meeting with Ben to discuss my future with the team and I was informed that my time has ended,” the post read. “As much as I would have loved to go to Rio, I too knew I wasn’t ready yet.”
Hayne made the controversial decision to quit the NFL after just the single season to join Fiji’s rugby sevens and chase an Olympic medal back in May of this year.
However in his one sevens tournament for the Flying Fijians he struggled to make an impact, making a number of errors as the side sealed their World Sevens crown in London.
Hayne will remain with Fiji’s squad for the next few days before heading to Sydney to sort out his next career move. Most pundits are tipping Hayne to make a return to the NRL, with rumours flying he may be set to re-join former club Parramatta following the news that Kieran Foran has taken indefinite leave from the game.
However, there has also been speculation that the Waratahs could be set to make a play for Hayne, with coach Daryl Gibson admitting he would be interested in luring the former Dally M winner to rugby’s 15-a-side format.
Hayne, however, gave no indication of his next move, instead opting to thank the Fijian sevens setup.
“I want to thank Ben and the entire coaching staff, the players and especially the fans. The support of the Fijian fans and fans around the world over the past few months has been incredible,” his post read.
“I’ll enjoy watching from afar and wish the team all the best of luck on their road to Rio.”
Hayne’s full statement
Last Friday I had a meeting with Ben to discuss my future with the team and I was informed that my time has ended. As much as I would have loved to go to Rio, I too knew I wasn’t ready yet. During my time with the team, I pushed my body above and beyond. I used all my experience as a professional athlete and have tried everyday and in every way possible to make this team and make it better but unfortunately, time has been against me.I’ve loved every minute of training with the Fiji Rugby 7’s. Not only are they back to back world champions but they are a bunch of guys who have welcomed me into the team as one of their own family.
It was hard to comprehend and understand at first why I came here? Why God put me here, but deep down I knew there was a reason and a purpose. God takes you places not so you can achieve what you set out for, but to play a part and help something greater than yourself.
This has been an amazing journey for me and a truly humbling experience. I have learnt so much and will never forget my time with this team.I want to thank Ben and the entire coaching staff, the players and especially the fans. The support of the Fijian fans and fans around the world over the past few months has been incredible. I am mesmerised at the love and passion people have for the 7’s.
For now, I’ll be in camp with the team until mid-week before heading back home to Sydney for some time out and will determine my next steps from there. I’ll enjoy watching from afar and wish the team all the best of luck on their road to Rio.
Going to miss our prayers twice a day, endless laughs and ma man Sharkie! Nothing but love for the taganes.
MOCE
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.