League Central TV Loz and Dog Show: Origin to lose warrior Gallen but Hopoate still in the mix

LEAGUE CENTRAL TV: Paul Gallen will leave Origin a ‘true warrior’ and Hopoate likely to still be there despite his no-playing-on-Sunday clause.

• Will Hopoate won’t play on Sundays for religious reasons
• Kent: Hopoate decision should be applauded

CANTERBURY’S Will Hopoate made headlines this week when it was revealed he won’t be playing any Sunday games for the club because of his dedication to his Mormon religion.

The Bulldogs have three Sunday games in a row from Rounds 10-12, which lead in to Origin I, a crucial period for selection considering the debate over who will wear the No.1 jersey for the Blues.

But NSW coach Laurie Daley — who also spoke about the retirement of Blues captain Paul Gallen after this year’s series saying “he’s been a true warrior for New South Wales” — told League Central TV’s Loz and Dog Show that Hoppa’s chances of running out for Origin I shouldn’t be affected.

Will Hopoate of the Bulldogs celebrates after scoring a try during the round 4 NRL match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, Friday, March 25, 2016. (AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

“It’s an interesting one because the grand finals are played on a Sunday, a lot of games are played on a Sunday, you might train on a Sunday, it’ll be interesting to see the impact it does have and in particular if the Bulldogs do go on to make the grand final and whether he will play or not,” Daley said.

“In terms of Origin, he’ll miss two games leading in to Origin (selection), but it won’t impact on his selection.”

Pressed by Daily Telegraph journalist Dean Ritchie on how crucial it is to play in those matches before State of Origin, Daley replied: “It depends who’s available. Will’s a guy who has never let us down before. Yes, it may affect his chances in terms of other people getting the jump on him but we know what he can do so I wouldn’t be too concerned.”

Originally published as League Central TV Loz and Dog Show: Origin to lose warrior Gallen but Hopoate still in the mix