Hayman mulling temporary Toulon comeback

Former New Zealand international Carl Hayman may don his studs again as World Cup cover at European champions Toulon, the French club's manager Bernard Laporte said Friday.

The 35-year-old Hayman retired at the end of last season after helping Toulon to a historic third straight European title.

But the former All Black may play a few more games for Toulon while their international stars are on World Cup duty.

"He's on tour with the Barbarians at the moment but we've offered him a special contract where he would only play a few matches, and mostly at home," said Laporte.

Toulon have difficulties in the front row as Australian Salesi Ma'afu has been charged with assault and faces a trip to court next month.

He is accused of "violence with a weapon" and could face a custodial sentence if found guilty.

Even if former captain and prop Hayman does not play again, he may yet join Toulon's backroom staff to assist forwards coach Jacques Delmas.

"Before the end of last season, Carl spoke of his desire to join the backroom staff," added Laporte.

"We wanted to get him involved with the scrum with Jacques."
Source: AFP