Unofficially, The Roar can reveal an outstanding $7,000 relocation debt owed to Daugunu forced the Wallaby’s hand to miss the match.
It’s believed Daugunu’s agent Damian McGregor-Lowndes gave the Super Rugby franchise until mid-Friday afternoon to settle the debt, but when it wasn’t lodged in time the Wallaby withdrew.
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While Rugby Australia is currently honouring the contracts of players and staff, Daugunu’s relocation fee sits outside his contract.
Recognising the can of worms that could be opened by paying Daugunu’s relocation fee, the governing body chose not to settle the fee.
That said, it’s understood RA presented several other options to try and come up with a temporary solution, including fast-tracking a later installment to resolve any cash-flow issues. It was turned down.