The football statistic that defies probability

June 9, 2026 — 5:33pm

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The decision by former NRL enforcer and Fijian international Kane Evans to detail his battles with alcohol and substance abuse and suicidal thoughts while wrestling with his sexuality is a reminder that real inclusion is the lingering elephant in the NRL’s trophy room.

The 34-year-old is just the second male player to publicly come out as gay in professional Australian rugby league, and the first to do so since pioneering former NSW Origin and Kangaroos star Ian Roberts 31 years ago.

LGBTQ representation is distinctly different between women’s and men’s professional sports. While female sports are inclusive, openly gay and bisexual male athletes remain incredibly........

© The Sydney Morning Herald