LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Japan's rugby scene is still a viable option for players considering the R360 competition, despite an upcoming cap on overseas talent that won't take effect until late next year.
Brisbane's own Payne Haas stands out as a prime target for the emerging R360 league, which is eyeing a launch around October 2026.
While both Papenhuyzen and Lomax are linked to the new league, their paths differ; Papenhuyzen is expected to take a break before deciding on his next steps, whereas Lomax is contemplating opportunities in union before committing to R360.
The Japan Rugby Football Union has not publicly condemned R360, unlike many other organizations, making it one of the few wealthy rugby unions that hasn't blacklisted players migrating to the new league.
Currently, the lucrative R360 competition has attracted NRL players like Joey Manu and Valynce Te Whare.
However, recent rule changes will make it more challenging to bring in players who are not Japanese-born or -raised, potentially tightening the availability of overseas talents.