Three other Scott Boras clients recently opted out of short-term deals after one year, then struck belated free-agent riches.

Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett knows how much the fixture means to his Indigenous players; Jillaroos coach quits three weeks before Test match.

Kalyn Ponga turned down a Kangaroos jersey last year but has had no hesitation accepting a call-up for the Maori All Stars.