Reports claiming that Willie Mason has signed with the French rugby union club Toulon have been denied by his UK Super League team, Hull Kingston Rovers.
Mason, who celebrated his 31st birthday by scoring his first try for Rovers against Wigan last Friday, is included in coach Justin Morgan’s 19-man squad for the Good Friday derby against Hull at the KC Stadium.
A club statement indicated, “The club is not aware of any approach for Willie Mason from French rugby union and he remains under contract and available for selection.”
“It will issue a further statement when the situation changes.”
“No additional comments will be provided at this stage.”
Rovers were optimistic that Mason might acquire a Tongan passport, which would exempt him from their overseas playing quota. Their statement mentioned that this situation was “close to resolution.” Approval of his Tongan passport would allow him to come off the import quota under the Cotonou trade treaty.
The statement elaborated: “Progress has been achieved in recent days with direct assistance from the Prime Minister of Tonga, and a resolution is anticipated soon.”
“The unique circumstances surrounding the delay in finalizing these matters are beyond the club’s control.”
“While the concerns of supporters are fully acknowledged, further comments at this stage would be inappropriate and could hinder a short-term resolution.”
Mason is currently only six weeks into a two-year contract with the Super League team.
by Buford Balony
