NRL's kick-blocker crackdown changes the game - but the question is do we want that?
NRL kickers are under more pressure than ever. But what will the knock-on effects of the new crack-down be?
Parramatta are hopeful absent star Semi Radradra will return to training this week, despite the NRL winger failing to return to Sydney on Sunday.
Radradra was due to return to Australia after being given sanctioned leave by the Eels to return to his native Fiji over the club’s bye weekend.
The Kangaroos winger is due to next play for the club in their round 17 clash with Cronulla at Southern Cross Group Stadium on Saturday.
The Eels hold their main training session ahead of that fixture on Wednesday and the club is hopeful Radradra will turn up before then.
Rumours persist Radradra is set to walk out on the NRL to join French rugby union and there were conflicting messages from his family in Fiji as to what his plans were.
Last week his manager George Christodoulou said Radradra would definitely return.
“Like other Eels players during the bye round, Semi was granted leave by the club to return home and visit family,” Christodoulou said.
“This has led to some unnecessary speculation regarding his future.
“I have spoken to Semi directly and he would like to assure Eels fans and the wider rugby league community that he will be returning as scheduled in time to prepare for the Eels’ next NRL game against Cronulla.
“He remains fully committed to his teammates and will be remaining with the Eels until at least the end of the 2017 season, as per his current contract.”
Radradra would likely be hit with a ban from the NRL if he does not return to fulfil his contract.
However NRL boss Todd Greenberg said it is his understanding that Radradra will come back to the Eels.
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NRL kickers are under more pressure than ever. But what will the knock-on effects of the new crack-down be?
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