Canberra Raiders and NSW State of Origin winger Blake Ferguson, Charged and Suspended
Blake Ferguson faced formal charges for indecent assault on a woman, following an incident at the 2230 Restaurant and Bar in Cronulla on Sunday evening.
Ferguson was with his former Raiders teammate, the Blues fullback Josh Dugan on a drinking session that time, but "there has been no allegations against him (the latter)," according to coach Laurey Daley.
While he did not face the similar upset this time, Dugan has been sacked earlier this season by the Raiders, following a session with his drinking buddy, Ferguson at the latter's place.
On Monday, Ferguson had to explain to the police officers at Waverley. But now that the charges have been finalised, he's forced to deal with another issue, his indefinitely suspended registration.
"Ferguson will not take part in the second State of Origin game and the NRL will reserve its decision on when he may be able to resume playing until it is in a position to assess any further relevant facts with the Canberra Raiders and the NRL Integrity Unit."
The NRL's decision also cited the player's "repeated behavioural issues involving the abuse of alcohol."
NRL Chief Executive Dave Smith further added that "I think clearly the fact of the matter is, we don't want to see that type of behaviour. Whilst I've got regard for his welfare, quite frankly, we don't want to see this type of behaviour, the fans don't want to see it, the majority of players don't want to see it."
"It 's time for people to understand that the game isn't going to accept this sort of behaviour."
Meanwhile, reports have it that Manly's Jorge Taufua, South Sydney winger Nathan Merrit, and Newcastle's Akuila Uate are among the candidates being chosen to replace Ferguson on Tuesday. The Blues is set to play for the Origin II clash at Lang Park on June 26.