Arabic version: تكريم آرو مع تخطيط دوري NRL لتحية في النهائي الكبير

According to ABC News, Jai Arrow says he has been told “nothing” about a planned tribute before Sunday’s NRL grand final, despite reports that he will take a lap of Stadium Australia during a performance of You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Arrow, who retired from the NRL earlier this year after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease, spoke at the Dally M Awards in Sydney after receiving the Provan-Summons Medal. The award recognises a player for embodying the spirit of the game through respect, honesty, bravery and sportsmanship.

“[I know] nothing yet, apparently I’m going around … but I don’t know anything,” Arrow said. “So it’ll be interesting. It won’t just be for me, it’ll be for everyone fighting MND.” He said the proposed pre-game event would offer a chance to continue raising awareness, adding that he could use his platform to spread awareness of the disease.

NRL executive chairman Peter V’landys did not disclose details of the tribute or performers, but said fans would be “happy and impressed” with the selected Australian performers. He said the event was focused on Arrow and the inspiration he provides to others facing illness.

V’landys said the NRL would donate $100,000 to Arrow’s family and $1 million to a fund for underprivileged children who cannot afford to play rugby league. The league was left without grand-final pre-match entertainment after talks with Australian artist Tones and I broke down earlier this month.