Arabic version: جاي آرو يعود عاطفياً إلى ساوث سيدني

According to ABC News, Jai Arrow led South Sydney out against the Gold Coast Titans and officially played his 99th match for the club in an emotional cameo at Skilled Park.

Arrow, who was diagnosed with MND earlier this year, received special NRL dispensation to take part in the opening seconds of the Rabbitohs’ final two matches of the season. Cameron Murray replaced him before kick-off, and Arrow left the field to a standing ovation.

Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett and former club stalwart Jason Clark helped Arrow put on his boots before the match. The Titans wore a commemorative jersey featuring Arrow’s face. He played 56 matches for Gold Coast from 2018 to 2020.

Arrow will again lead South Sydney out for next week’s regular-season finale against the Sydney Roosters. The appearance will be his 100th match for the Rabbitohs and the 180th and final game of his career.

The NRL community has supported Arrow since his diagnosis and immediate retirement in May. Fundraising efforts have passed $1 million, while players from every club marked tries with arrow celebrations during July.