NRL ace pulls out of Ashes duel in blow for England
Ian Chadband |
Victor Radley has decided to rule himself out of the eagerly awaited Ashes rugby league series following his recent trials and tribulations with Sydney Roosters, dealing England’s hopes a massive blow.
The 27-year-old lock has made the call a week after the Roosters imposed a 10-match ban and fined him $30,000, with close to 20 per cent of his salary docked, for bringing the club into disrepute while caught up amid the Brandon Smith drug controversy.
England coach Shaun Wane had told AAP that if Radley was “fit and healthy”, he was still going to pick him for the three-match series.
But Radley has now revealed he doesn’t want to be considered for the contests, with the first Test set to take place at Wembley on October 25 at Wembley.
There was no explanation for his decision but it still came somewhat of a surprise after Wane had also said last week: “Rads is raring to go. He would love to come over here and play for England.
“He is proud of his heritage and an absolutely great asset to us.”
On Thursday, though, Wane said in a statement: “Victor has been an outstanding player for England for the last three years, but we respect his decision.
“We need 24 players who are fully focused on the historic opportunity of facing Australia in an Ashes series.”
Smith, who appeared before magistrates in Queensland last week, is planning to contest allegations that he supplied drugs and disclosed inside information for illegal betting, while Radley hasn’t been charged by police.
But the Roosters say Radley had brought the club into disrepute in relation to “allegedly obtaining an illegal substance”.
Radley won’t be paid by the Roosters while serving his ban, while his fine will come in the form of a donation to St Vincent’s Hospital for cancer research.
He also offered a sincere apology to the club and its fans “for the negative spotlight I have brought on the Roosters.”
On the playing front, Radley’s absence is unquestionably a big blow for Wane, but St Helens forward Morgan Knowles, who’s bound for an NRL bow with the Dolphins next season, is now the most likely to start at 13.
AAP
