Stripping Canberra forward Josh Papalii of his Kangaroos selection for his drink-driving conviction would be a harsh call, according to Raiders captain Jarrod Croker.
Papalii’s spot in next week’s Test against New Zealand is in jeopardy after he was fined $1000 on Thursday and disqualified from driving for eight months for an incident in January.
The club is expected to announce his punishment on Friday, which is likely to include suspension from Saturday’s clash against Canterbury and the Test on Friday week in Canberra.
But Croker believes it would be too heavy a price, saying Papalii had proven to be a model citizen on and off the field over the past four months.
“I think it would be, but that’s just my opinion. We’re all entitled to it. Hopefully that’s not the case,” Croker told reporters on Friday.
“It looks like he has (grown), especially on the field. But off-field, Papa’s as happy as I’ve ever seen him. He learnt from that mistake. As a team we put it behind us.
“We got over it quickly, so did Papa. I’m sure he’s put yesterday behind him and he’s worried about playing a good game for us tomorrow and then moving into the game next week.”
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga conceded he is likely to be forced into finding a replacement for Papalii, possibly in the form of clubmate Shannon Boyd.
“Josh would likely have some sort of sanction against him. We’ll follow those procedures,” Meninga told Sky Sports’ Big Sports Breakfast on Friday.
“I’m big on behaviour on and off the field. When you put the green and gold jersey on, you’re telling me that you want to be an ambassador and a great role model for the game.”
Croker is adamant the latest indiscretion won’t affect the form of the Queensland State of Origin star, who has been among the Raiders’ best so far this season.
He is currently averaging 144 metres on 15 carries over the opening eight rounds.
“We’ve seen his form the first eight or so weeks. I don’t think it’ll change at all. He’s kept that away from footy, to his credit. He’s been really good about that,” Croker said.
“I’m sure he’ll be professional again for the rest of the year.”
