Israel Folau a step closer to NRL return

Former Wallabies star Israel Folau is a step closer to a NRL return after signing for the Southport Tigers in the local Gold Coast competition.

Folau says he stands by the Bible and has thanked Jesus for allowing him to sign for the Tigers alongside Queensland MP Clive Palmer.

The dual-code international has not played league since walking out on the Catalans Dragons in the Super League earlier this year.

He has formally applied to the Queensland Rugby League for registration with the Southport Tigers.

Folau has been trying to return to the NRL in recent months with St George Illawarra Dragons reportedly showing genuine interest before withdrawing as soon as the public and media backlash began to fire up.

[Source: Fox Sports Australia]