NSW Blues prop James Tamou suspended for State of Origin II over drink drive controversy

UPDATE: NSW prop James Tamou has been stood down from State of Origin II and fined $20,000 after being arrested for drink driving.

James Tamou

UPDATE: NSW prop James Tamou has been stood down from State of Origin II and fined $20,000 after being arrested for drink driving.

The decision was reached jointly by the NRL and the Cowboys and announced this afternoon, confirming Tamou would the miss the Cowboys’ match on Friday night against the Dragons and had been ruled ineligible for selection for game two against the Maroons on June 26.

The penalties, which also include forgoing any potential Origin match payment, came after Tamou was arrested and charged for on Monday after allegedly blowing four times the legal limit and driving without a licence.

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NRL chief executive Dave Smith said the penalties reflected the seriousness of the offences.

“This is a high level, high risk, high penalty situation,” Smith said today.

“Drink driving puts lives at risk. Our players are well educated regarding alcohol management and there is no excuse for such behaviour.

“Our Integrity Unit has reviewed the situation, we have consulted with the Cowboys and we have sent a clear message of what is expected of our players.”

Cowboys CEO Peter Jourdain added: “What has happened in this instance is clearly unacceptable to us and the NRL.

“James returned a very high reading and was driving unlicensed - two offences that can never be condoned.

“We believe the two-game punishment is appropriate. He is missing a crucial game for his club and the honour of again representing the Blues in what could be an historic Origin clash.

“The NRL has decided to also impose a $20,000 fine on top of missing his Origin match fee.

“James has shown enormous remorse for his actions and we don’t expect him to re-offend.”

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The NRL will also work with the Cowboys and Tamou to implement additional education and welfare programs, including responsible driver education.

NSW coach Laurie Daley said he was in no rush to announce a replacement for Origin II, with Aaron Woods, Tim Grant, Aiden Tolman and Willie Mason among the contenders.

Scott Bolton has been promoted to the starting pack as Tamou’s replacement for the Cowboys' match against St George Illawarra, with Gavin Cooper added to the travelling squad.