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Live sport on SN this weekendNot a dry eye as Jai Arrow brings up 100th Souths game
George Clarke, AAP • September 5th, 2026 1:30 am
Jai Arrow couldn't contain his emotions when he was embraced by Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
Jai Arrow choked back tears when he was hugged by Wayne Bennett as the forward celebrated his 100th South Sydney game with a hero's reception.
On an emotional night, the Rabbitohs' bitter rivalry with the Sydney Roosters was put to the side as the clubs came together to pay tribute to Arrow at Allianz Stadium.
Arrow, a 31-year-old father of one, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) this year, and until two weeks ago was stranded on 98 NRL games for the Bunnies.
A grateful and gracious Jai Arrow showed his appreciation to the crowd | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
At Bennett's initiative, the NRL allowed Souths an extra interchange against the Gold Coast last week for game No. 99 and again on Friday against the Roosters.
Arrow led his teammates out to the sound of the Gerry and the Pacemakers rendition of You'll Never Walk Alone, with Ron Coote ringing the Rabbitohs' bell.
The former Queensland State of Origin forward was given a guard of honour by more than 100 Souths old boys, including members of the 2021 grand final squad Arrow was a member of.
Earlier in the night, the same ex-Bunnies players had led a march down Anzac Parade to the stadium.
Arrow made his way to the halfway line as Souths prepared to kick off, before referee Adam Gee blew the whistle to signal the Bunnies had called for an interchange.
Teammates hugged Arrow as he made his way towards the touchline, and again the crowd stood as one, with Cody Walker hugging the forward as he took his place on the field.
A ton of class, Jai Arrow walked out with captain Cameron Murray for his 100th Rabbitohs game | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
Arrow did remarkably well to hold himself together - he has spoken of how he has struggled to contain his emotions as a result of his MND - but when he embraced Bennett, the forward sobbed profusely.
Fans from both sides of the divide continued to applaud Arrow as he made his way up the tunnel well after kick-off.
Viewers in New Zealand were deprived of the chance to see the moving scenes, with broadcasters cutting to a betting promotion while Arrow was cheered on and off the field.
"We know we missed a big moment, and we're really sorry you didn't get to see it live," Sky Sport NZ said on social media.
Arrow was greeted with a cheer whenever his faced flash on screen as Souths cruised to a 50-20 win.
The Roosters' Daly Cherry-Evans shares a tender moment with Jai Arrow after the game | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
"It was pretty special for Jai and it was nice to see everyone throw their support behind him," said Souths captain Cameron Murray.
"Jai has handled it like a champion, and the strength and selflessness he's shown in the face of what he's facing is exceptional.
"He's still the same bloke who rides the highs and lows as if he was playing. We all love him for it."
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