Nomad Warriors facing rolling roster amid virus restrictions
Discussions between the Warriors and the NRL on how to manage any emergency loan system are continuing – but it could end up with a player running out for and then against the New Zealand club.
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A player could play for the Warriors one week and then play against them the next.
It is the bizarre scenario which is being discussed in a bid to keep the Warriors on the field and competitive.
New Zealand have started scouring the market place for emergency loan players from rival clubs.
Among those the Warriors have reached out to include Wests Tigers duo Tommy Talau and Matt Eisenhuth, Canterbury pair Sauaso Sue and Ofahiki Ogden, Canberra’s Jack Murchie and Brisbane young gun Tesi Niu.
They have even tried to get 2021 recruit Ben Murdoch-Masila out of his Warrington contract immediately with the Super League suspended.
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Discussions between the Warriors and the NRL about how exactly the loan system would work are still ongoing but the club is seeking middle forwards and outside backs.
It is understood the NRL would subsidise the wages of any player who makes a move, and the player’s originally club can recall the loan at any time. Which means Eisenhuth could line up for the Warriors in their round three clash, and then play against them in round four when they play the Tigers.
As it stands the baulk of the Warriors players are expected to remain in Australia after their game against the Raiders on Saturday, after suggestions they might not get paid if they returned home.
A host of injured Warriors including Gerard Beale, Agnatius Paasi, Jazz Tevaga and Josh Curran jetted into Australia on Wednesday to start self-isolation, but they won’t be able to play against Manly next Friday.
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This means the Warriors may need an urgent SOS if they are hit with injuries or suspension this round. Outside backs Peta Hiku and Patrick Herbert have already returned home.
The suspension of the state-wide reserve grade comp means a stack of fringe players will be without football for weeks which could open the door for them to get a game with the Warriors.
Players aren’t the only thing clubs are providing the nomad Warriors. South Sydney have offered up a stack of strapping and training pads for the club while underwear company Reer Endz dropped off some stock to the players this week.