Marooned superstars

Anthony Milford and Valentine Holmes have more reason to regret their Queensland camp indiscretions now that they are among the NRL's form players, according to Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan. Holmes, like Brisbane's Milford, was banned from Origin selection after a late night in Brisbane, but scored four tries in the 62-0 demotion of Newcastle at Hunter Stadium and probably should have got five. "They probably go home and go. 'Wow – the stuff-up's probably an even bigger stuff-up now' with the form that they're showing," said Flanagan. "They would have probably got a rep jumper in the next couple of weeks but the Queensland Rugby League made a decision and we've got to stand by that. The game is more important as a whole. We educate these blokes that your behaviour has got to be top notch off the field. If it is, they'll play rep footy." Quote of the afternoon came from Paul Gallen, regarding the Knights' inexperienced line-up. "There wouldn't be too many blokes who played for Newcastle today who would make any other first-grade side," said Gallen.

Four try hero: Valentine Holmes, right, celebrates with Chris Heighington. Credit:Getty Images

Too little, too late?

Some NRL officials have been trying to clear the way for Origin players to represent other countries since the 2013 World Cup. What they keep hearing from NSW and Queensland is that "you have to be Australian to play for an Australian state". This is based on a 1970s idea of what being "Australian" is. While local officials have dragged their heels on the issue, the needs and expectations of other countries have moved on. Getting a good player back for a game or two is still considered a good outcome for Pacific countries but the likes of the US and South Africa consider constant swapping a bad look for rugby league in their markets. Better the NRL pay at least one Test appearance fee a year and take money out of the equation when players choose or, as a cheaper option, make Anthony Milford and Semi Radradra NRL ambassadors to Samoa and Fiji and let them commit to those national teams for life.