The Mole: James Maloney on brink of NRL comeback as Catalans deal becomes clouded

2144superman

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Don't be surprised if rugby league's best 'Mr Fix-it' - James Maloney - makes a return to the NRL in 2021.

Maloney's NRL career looked to be over when he jetted out to France with his family to join Catalans on a three-year Super League contract late last year.

But just four games into Maloney's new deal, COVID-19 shut down Super League and its future remains clouded.

Meanwhile, a host of NRL clubs - headed by the Titans, Broncos, Bulldogs, Warriors and Dragons - have problems in the halves that Maloney could fix.


The 34-year-old has a phenomenal record of turning clubs around in quick time - he is a winner - and I'm hearing while no approach has been made at this stage, his name is being discussed at board level by several clubs.

Maloney knocked back a return to the NRL on a short-term deal after a couple of quiet offers a few months back because of quarantine issues and the fact he has four young children.

But a return to the NRL full time may appeal to the former NSW State of Origin star, with Super League clubs all in financial strife and Catalans likely to be prepared to release him to cut costs.



WARRIORS, BULLDOGS EYE OFF HASTINGS
Jackson Hastings has the next 24 hours to decide whether he will invoke a get-out clause and return to the NRL in 2021.

Wigan want to keep the halfback - who was on fire in Super League before COVID-19 -but will allow him to return home on compassionate grounds next season if he so desires.

Wigan need to know his plans ASAP, however so they can make contingency moves, and have told Hastings they would like an answer before June 30 in the UK.

The New Zealand Warriors are making a huge play for Hastings, but he wants to return to family in Sydney, with the Bulldogs the early favourites to get his signature.


https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/mole-j...h-temper/18a6d257-b967-49fe-840b-c08cb36b1c9d
 

boggie23

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Lyn needs to call Wigan and let them know we are able to give them a future immortal in Lewis for the services of Hastings.

Ps what is Hastings position? Is he still trying to be a fullback or has he settled into the halves?
 

Scoooby

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We will take Maloney, need something !!!
 

maroondog72

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Maloney would teach our young halves more in two weeks than our coach could in a lifetime yes from me
 
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