SUVA, (FIJI TIMES/NZ HERALD) – Jarryd Hayne has missed selection in Fiji’s Rugby Sevens side for the Rio Olympics.
Hayne was told on Friday he didn’t make the team and he will return to Sydney next week to consider his future.
“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,” Hayne said in a statement.
The former Parramatta NRL fullback had shifted to the modified game after quitting the NFL in May.
He made his debut at the London Sevens for the World Champion side, however only played limited minutes in each game.
“As much as I would have loved to go to Rio, I too knew I wasn’t ready yet,” Hayne said.
“During my time with the team, I pushed my body above and beyond.”
In a touching statement on the star’s Facebook page today, Hayne showed nothing but love and respect for his 7s colleagues who he says made him a part of their family.
“I’ve loved every minute of training with the Fiji Rugby 7s. 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.”
With a more spiritual tone, Hayne said it was hard to comprehend and understand why his rugby journey ended up in Fiji.
“Why God put me here…” he wrote.
Hayne added : 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”.
Thanking Coach Ben Ryan and the entire coaching staff, players and fans, Hayne pointed out that he was “mesmerised at the love and passion people have for the 7s”.
“The support of the Fijian fans and fans around the world over the past few months has been incredible,” he wrote.
“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… Nothing but love for the taganes,” he ended.
Hayne mentioned that he will be in camp with the team until mid-week before heading back home to Sydney for some time out then determine his next steps from there.
Hayne’s non-selection will only further fuel rumours of the two-time Dally M medallist’s return to the NRL.
Kieran Foran’s reported exit from Parramatta will open up the salary cap space required, while a number of other clubs signalled their interest when he left the San Francisco 49ers last month.
The 28-year-old has also been linked to a move to 15-a-side rugby, while Super Rugby franchise the NSW Waratahs last month indicated they would be interested in signing him.
