Victor Radley has no regrets over his decision to make himself ineligible for State of Origin, insisting he would still elect to represent England if given the choice today.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Radley remains absent from all Origin talk this weekend, as NSW coach Michael Maguire prepares to name his first team as early as Sunday evening.
With Cameron Murray injured and plenty of question marks over the make up of the Blues pack, the Sydney Roosters No.13 should be firmly in the frame for selection.
But Radley's decision to honour his father Nigel's English heritage at the 2022 World Cup means he ineligible, having played for another tier-one nation.
And while there is a strong argument Radley should be able to play for NSW, given he was born and raised in Sydney, the player is not calling for a rule change.
"I made the decision knowing I can't play Origin. I knew what would happen, so I'm OK with it," Radley told AAP.
"I would still make the same decision today.
"I don't necessarily think they should change the rule - if they did, sure, I'd be stoked. I'd be laughing.
"But I still want to play for England."
Radley's situation is a rare one.
NRL players are eligible to feature in Origin provided they lived in NSW or Queensland prior to their 13th birthday.
For the most part, they are also able to play for other nations ahead of Australia - including those in the Pacific, Americas or European mainland.
But if any player opts to run out for New Zealand or England at a senior level, they are automatically ineligible for Origin for the rest of their career.
"That's the thing which is a little bit ... I wouldn't say frustrating," Radley said.
"But I do see a lot of these other players go and represent (the nation of their heritage) and still be able to play Origin.
"Which is essentially what I've done.
"I'm probably a little bit different, the exception, but I love playing for England."
Radley's ineligibility should give the Roosters a boost during the Origin period.
James Tedesco, Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii and Angus Crichton are all likely to be picked for NSW, while Lindsay Collins will be in Queensland's side with Sam Walker a potential 18th man.
Conjecture has remained over Tedesco's spot, and whether the incumbent Blues captain can hold out a push from Penrith No.1 Dylan Edwards.
"Teddy is a leader and has been leading from the front all year, so I would like to see him continue (as NSW fullback)," Roosters coach Trent Robinson said ahead of Saturday's clash with Canberra.
"I don't think anyone should be an automatic selection.
"But he has also led the way and led NSW to series victories. I don't think he has put a foot wrong there."
Australian Associated Press
