Briefs

Prop facing ban
SYDNEY: One game into his return from a five-game suspension, Canterbury firebrand Jack Hetherington could be facing more time on the NRL sidelines after being cited in Saturday’s loss to Penrith. Less than three minutes into his comeback, Hetherington was put on report for a high tackle on Panthers second-rower Viliame Kikau at BlueBet Stadium. The initial contact appeared to be on Kikau’s chest before bouncing up towards his face.

Stuart admits dip
SYDNEY: Canberra coach Ricky Stuart concedes the resilience that got the Raiders to a historic NRL grand final just two seasons ago has been sucked out of the club. After a week of turmoil which bubbled over once George Williams was given an early release on Tuesday, the Raiders were thrashed by an understrength Sydney Roosters side 16-44 on Saturday night. They were a long way off the cohesive unit that went down to the Roosters in the 2019 decider.

Lee to join Broncos
SYDNEY: Melbourne and Brisbane have traded Queensland Origin backs with Brenko Lee joining the Broncos for the 2022 NRL season.
The Storm lured young Maroons winger Xavier Coates south, but new dad Lee has gone the other way to be closer to his Brisbane family, signing a two-year deal. Lee had a memorable 2020 season with Melbourne, starting on a train-and-trial contract and finishing as a premiership winner and State of Origin player for Queensland.

Holmes snatches win
BRISBANE: A 39-metre field goal by Valentine Holmes has sealed a memorable and action-packed 29-28 win for North Queensland over the Warriors in Townsville. Holmes was consistent all night for the Cowboys, only missing once off the tee from five attempts and bagging two try assists to go with four tackle breaks and 137 running metres. But it was the fullback’s showing in the dying stages of the match that will have Queensland selectors excited to have him in the squad.

Panthers dominate
SYDNEY: Penrith could boast their biggest State of Origin representation in a series with up to a remarkable six players picked for the Origin series opener. New South Wales announced their side for another anticipated series opener last night, with Queensland following suit today. The representative workload shapes as about the only thing likely to stop the unbeaten Panthers’ march in the NRL, which was extended to a stunning 12th game on Saturday evening.

Ponga in doubt
SYDNEY: Queensland have been rocked by further State of Origin selection drama with Kalyn Ponga still sidelined with his groin injury and Felise Kaufusi facing a ban for tripping. Newcastle announced on Friday that Ponga would yesterday’s clash with Manly due to his ongoing groin complaint. The star Queensland fullback was expected to play after already missing two matches and now faces a race against the clock to be fit for the series opener on June 9. – Agencies