Willie Mason’s UK Super League club Hull Kingston Rovers have denied reports suggesting the Australian has signed a contract with French rugby union club Toulon.
Mason, who scored his first try for Rovers on his 31st birthday against Wigan last Friday, has been named in coach Justin Morgan’s 19-man squad for the Good Friday derby with Hull at the KC Stadium.
“The club are unaware of any approach for Willie Mason from French rugby union and he remains under contract and available for selection,” a club statement said.
“As and when the situation changes a further statement will follow.
“No further comment will be made at this stage.”
Rovers had hoped Mason could obtain a Tongan passport, which would have removed him from their overseas playing quota. Their statement said that the situation was “close to resolution”. Approval for his Tongan passport will enable him to come off the import quota, courtesy of the Cotonou trade treaty.
The statement said: “Progress has been made over recent days with direct support from the Prime Minister of Tonga and a resolution is expected shortly.
“The circumstances surrounding the delay in finalising matters are unique and beyond the club’s control.
“Whilst fully appreciating supporters’ concerns, it would be inappropriate and potentially prejudicial to a short-term resolution of matters to comment any further at this stage.”
Mason is only six weeks into a two-year deal with the Super League club.
by Buford Balony
