Israel Folau wants to play against British and Irish Lions six years after Wallabies’ exile

Israel Folau wants to bury the hatchet with Rugby Australia and play against the British and Irish Lions during their tour Down Under later this year.

Six years after a bitter falling out over anti-gay religious memes Folau posted online - which led to his sacking by Rugby Australia and Folau successfully suing for wrongful dismissal and receiving a multi-million dollar payout - the former Wallabies star is keen to play for a Trans-Tasman invitational side against the UK tourists in July.

The controversial posts remain online.

The 35-year-old has been playing rugby in Japan since he left Australia, and if his wish is granted, the match in July would be his first on home soil in half a decade.

“If I was to get given that opportunity, it would be an awesome opportunity to play with guys that you used to play against, obviously the All Blacks, they’re world-class players,” Folau told News Corp.

“Getting a chance to run alongside them, and then obviously against the Lions, is huge.

“I’ve always been proud of being able to put that gold jersey on to represent the Wallabies. I was fortunate enough to do it for a very long time.

“And I’ve got nothing negative against what’s happened in the past. I still love the game over there.”

Folau would need the all-clear from both Australia and New Zealand rugby officials, and his return is further complicated by the fact he switched his national allegiance to Tonga three years ago.

While providing a big-name drawcard for the match, allowing Folau to play during the tour could be an unwanted distraction for Rugby Australia officials.

Rugby Australia has yet to comment on Folau’s proposal.