As he looks for a new contract in the NRL, Mapapalangi is reportedly in “an awkward position,” according to Fox Sports.
In addition to the abundance of outside backs already at the Hunter club, the Knights have added James Schiller, and the 21-year-old is presently competing against fellow youngster Fletcher Sharpe.
Mapapalangi has had a challenging season; his 2022 debut season did not result in a permanent spot for 2023, and the center/winger sustained serious shoulder problems during that campaign.
However, Fox Sports thinks that Super League is a potential option to build experience for a second crack at the NRL because Mapapalangi is on the outside at Newcastle.
The 21-year-old was “bound for Super League,” according to a report published by The Daily Telegraph in late October.
Players like Mapapalangi have found it easier to travel across the world after the RFL relaxed the visa rules for foreign players attending the British game at the age of 21.
Players who have participated in the NSW or Queensland Cup competitions who are 24 years of age or under can now apply for visas to play in the UK.
With teams like St Helens and Salford Red Devils still holding quota spaces, it is unclear which Super League team would be interested in Mapapalangi.
Players who have participated in the NSW or Queensland Cup competitions who are 24 years of age or under can now apply for visas to play in the UK.
With teams like St Helens and Salford Red Devils still holding quota spaces, it is unclear which Super League team would be interested in Mapapalangi.