. Radradra leaving Eels after Sharks clash: new report
Semi Radradra will leave the Eels to take up a nine-month contract in French rugby after playing in Parramattas round 17 NRL clash with the Cronulla Sharks, according to a new report.
Radradras older sister confirmed to Fiji Times that her brother was exiting the Eels for personal reasons, which was first reported by 9News on Saturday after the Parramatta winger had left Australia having been granted permission to visit his family in Fiji by the club.
"Semi had discussed his move (to French rugby) with my parents and we are supporting him 100 per cent," Vaseva Waqavatu said.
Radradra will return to Sydney for Parramattas match with the Cronulla Sharks on July 2nd, according to his sister.
There were reports that the Eels were considering allowing him to play rugby in France from August until April next year if he then returned to sign a three-year deal with Parramatta.
The Eels issued a statement on Saturday night saying that the club expected Radradra to return for the Cronulla match and honour his contract for the next two years.
"The Parramatta Eels can confirm that Semi Radradra has been granted permission to return to Fiji for a short family visit during the bye round," the statement said.
"He is expected to return to Sydney in time to prepare for the club's next NRL game against Cronulla.
"Semi Radradra is contracted to play for Parramatta Eels until the end of the 2017 season, and has given no indication that the contract will not be honoured."
Radradras exit from the Eels has been compared to Sonny Bill Williams infamous mid-season walkout from the Bulldogs in 2008.
During his time in the NRL, Radradra has been providing financial support for his unwell father in Fiji.
