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Former Wallaby Kurtley Beale has sparked significant interest from several National Rugby League (NRL) clubs – according to reports.
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Having amassed over 90 caps for the Wallabies since 2009 and participated in more than 100 Super Rugby matches, Beale’s open consideration of a code switch to rugby league has caught the attention of multiple NRL teams. This development comes after Beale’s acquittal on all charges related to rape and sexual touching without consent – which had sidelined him from all forms of football since last January.
News Corp reports that the Canterbury Bulldogs are among the NRL clubs engaged in discussions about potentially recruiting Beale.
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The club has not dismissed the idea of adding the former Wasps and Racing 92 star to their roster, signaling a growing interest in the utility back’s services. Beale’s openness to a new challenge in rugby league was highlighted in a recent interview with 9News, where he expressed a lifelong admiration for the league and the possibility of transitioning to the 13-man code.
Beale’s affinity for rugby league has been a constant throughout his rugby union career and he claims he often drew inspiration from league players to enhance his own game.
“It’s a possibility,” Beale told 9News last week. “I’ve always been a big admirer of league. Growing up in Mt Druitt, Sydney west, but also there’s been an admiration throughout my career.
“Always watching league over the weekends and taking little bits from different players to add to my game. There is interest there, for both codes.”
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With NRL clubs now deliberating on the opportunity to bring Beale’s experience and versatility to their teams, the prospect of this code switch represents a fascinating potential shift in Beale’s illustrious career. As negotiations and discussions continue behind the scenes, the rugby and league communities eagerly await the outcome of this unprecedented situation.
A good fit in more ways than one.