Radradra denies code switch rumours

Flying Fijian winger Semi Radradra has denied rumours he is set to quit Parramatta and the NRL over his State of Origin eligibility wrangle.

It was reported that Radradra was considering a shock switch to overseas rugby union unless the NRL agreed to bend the rules to allow him to play Origin for NSW.

However the two-time Dally M winger of the year and last year’s leading try scorer said he accepted that he would not be allowed to turn out for the Blues and promised to see out his contract with Parramatta until the end of 2018.

“I’m very happy at Parramatta, being here with the boys and with Brad (Arthur) and everything – and if I was able to play Origin it would just be a bonus,” Radradra said.

“But I know there are rules and if I can get picked or not, I’m still happy at Parramatta.”

Radradra does not meet Origin eligibility requirements because he did not play in NSW before he was 13.

However he is eligible to play for Australia, having recently met residency requirements having been here for three years and may come into Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga’s calculations for the May 6 Test against New Zealand.

Having scored 50 four-pointers in 52 games, calls for him to be considered for NSW grew louder after his blockbusting two-try effort in the Eels’ 20-6 win over Canterbury last week.

He said he was committed to the Eels, who brought him to Australia in 2012, and reassured the blue and gold’s fans he wanted to stay.

“Parramatta has helped me with everything – bringing me here, teaching me rugby league, playing good football,” he said.

“They’ve been able to bring out the best of me today which is why I’m playing well.

“I love the Eels fans, they always cheer loudly for me and show me support and the last thing I want is for them to think I’m not committed.”

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