Semi Radradra Eels: Jarryd Hayne the carrot in Parramatta’s $2 million plan

Semi Radradra has been told he will get to play alongside his hero, Jarryd Hayne, if he extends his contract with Parramatta.

The Daily Telegraph can reveal Parramatta are working on a blueprint which, costing upwards of $2 million a year, will unite Radradra and Hayne in the code’s most exciting backline combination.

Eels official Ian Schubert on Sunday confirmed the plan while also denying reports the Fijian, who jetted home over the weekend, was set to quit the code the same way Sonny Bill Williams did in 2008.

While Radradra does want an upgrade on his $250,000-a-year deal, Schubert said the cult Kangaroo had not informed them he was leaving for French rugby.

The veteran administrator added suggestions the club would allow Radradra to play league and rugby were also false.

“This won’t be anything like the SBW story,’’ Schubert said.

“There are a lot of Chinese whispers but nothing has come from Semi and nothing has come from his management.

“Just because you’re approached by someone doesn’t mean you’re going there.

“And right now, I’d say the only club who hasn’t offered Semi money would be the Boston Red Sox. They’d be the only ones who don’t want him.

“But Semi is contracted to Parramatta and he understands his obligations. He will be back in Australia this Sunday and back at training Tuesday week.”

Quizzed on suggestions Parramatta would let the winger play in Europe between August and April, Schubert said: “You can’t do that. The NRL don’t allow it and we wouldn’t embarrass them by asking.

“Currently, Semi is on a fair contract. Yes, he would like more money and, given the way he’s going at the moment, that’s only natural.

“Semi is one of the best wingers and one of the best athletes in the game.

“But he’s contracted to this club and we expect him back here Sunday.”

And to help ensure that, Schubert said Parramatta were working to link Radradra with two-time Dally M medallist Hayne — whom the 24-year-old credits for inspiring his unlikely NRL story.

Despite having been fined $1 million for salary-cap breaches, Schubert insisted the Eels would have the finances to fit both players in a backline that already includes New Zealand Test star Kieran Foran.

Presently, Hayne is pushing for an Olympic spot with Fiji in sevens rugby. Last week, the former San Francisco 49er hinted at continuing his sporting pursuits overseas — most likely in French or Japanese rugby.

Yet Schubert said recent talks between the club and its former star had been positive and some Eels insiders have tipped Hayne to return as early as next year.

Asked if he expected to see Hayne and Radradra in the same Eels backline, Schubert said: “Not tomorrow and not next week ... but yes, I do.’’

 

Author: 
www.dailytelegraph.com.au