For Robert Lui, the controversial halfback from Wests Tigers, being selected for the Queensland Emerging Origin camp, led by Wayne Bennett, is a much-expected boost; it is often seen as a pathway to Maroons selection.
Queensland Emerging Origin Squad
Ben Barba (Bulldogs), Daniel Vidot (Canberra), Jharal Yow Yeh (Broncos), Dane Nielsen (Melbourne), Justin O’Neill (Melbourne), Daly Cherry-Evans (Manly), Robert Lui (Wests Tigers), Martin Kennedy (Sydney Roosters), Jake Friend (Sydney Roosters), Matt Bell (Penrith), Matt Gillett (Broncos), Ben Te’o (Broncos), Ben Lowe (Souths), William Zillman (Titans)
Recently, Lui has made his way back to training with Wests Tigers after facing charges for assaulting his pregnant partner.
Following a change in his bail conditions last month, the Tigers have lifted the restriction on Lui participating in club activities, permitting him to contact his partner.
Lui joins nine new additions in the 14-member camp set to take place over three days next month, including another player who’s been in the headlines off the field, Jake Friend from Sydney Roosters.
Friend made a comeback after several alcohol-related incidents, playing a key role in leading the Roosters to the 2010 NRL grand final.
Last month, he avoided a conviction for drug possession but received a two-year good behaviour bond instead.
Among the other newcomers to the squad are 2010 Dally M Rookie of the Year Matt Gillett, Ben Barba, Dane Nielsen, Justin O’Neill, Daly Cherry-Evans, Martin Kennedy, and Ben Te’o.
In 2010, David Taylor utilized this squad as a launchpad for his Origin selection, whereas Jharal Yow Yeh and Ben Lowe went on to be named as 18th men for this year’s series after also participating in the camp.
Both Yow Yeh and Lowe maintain their places in the squad. Daniel Vidot, Matt Bell, and William Zillman are set to make a return as well.
Buford Balony says: It’s encouraging to see yet another Tigers player on the rise.
