Clive Palmer says Israel Folau would have made a difference in Maroons mauling

A staunch supporter of Israel Folau’s return to rugby league, Clive Palmer insists the Maroons would have been helped by the former international.

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – MAY 27: Clive Palmer and Israel Folau speak to media at Owen Park on May 27, 2021 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

Billionaire Clive Palmer believes Queensland needs Israel Folau, declaring the 32-year-old would have “made a difference” in the Maroons’ 50-6 thumping last night.

Palmer is backing Folau’s bold bid to return to rugby league for the Southport Tigers, with the code-hopper’s injunction against the Queensland Rugby League to be heard on Thursday.

“Congratulations to NSW who were faster and stronger, however Israel would have made a difference. Queensland needed someone of his ability,” Palmer said.

“Never before have we seen a QRL condition put on a player where the player has to give up representative honours and selection.”

Stream selected Fox League shows on Kayo Freebies completely free this June including NRL 360, Sunday Night with Matty Johns, Big League Wrap & more. No Credit Card. No Brainer. Register Free Now >

Clive Palmer wants to see Israel Folau in the Maroons side. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“All Israel Folau wants to do is play football and be treated like any other person.”

The injunction was filed in response to the QRL’s refusal to register him as a player due to a contractual dispute with French club Catalans Dragons.

The Maroons were torn apart by the Blues in a nightmare Origin I with utility back Tom Trbojevic scoring a remarkable hat-trick.

The home side conceded 30 points in a runaway second half as their defence was continually exposed by the Blues.

Frustrations boiled over with Cameron Munster escaping suspension for kicking Blues rookie Liam Martin.