NRL 2024: Addin Fonua-Blake stood down by Warriors for ‘breach of club standards’

One of the highest paid players in the NRL has been stood down by the Warriors following a “breach of club standards”.

The Warriors remain committed to Addin Fonua-Blake and won’t entertain a release despite its decision to stand the marquee prop down for failing club standards.

The 2023 Dally M prop of the year is a shock withdrawal for the Warriors clash with the Dolphins on Sunday in New Zealand.

The stringent disciplinary action was taken by Warriors coach Andrew Webster after the 28-year-old front-rower failed to sing the team song and removed himself from the dressing room after the club’s outstanding win over Penrith at Magic Round last weekend.

“Addin Fonua-Blake has been stood down from Sunday’s Indigenous Round match against the Dolphins on Sunday following a breach of club standards,’’ a club statement on Thursday said.

Webster was quoted in the statement, stating: “This doesn’t meet our standards and Addin accepts full responsibility for his behaviour.’’

Warriors CEO Cameron George confirmed that at no stage has Fonua-Blake asked for a release.

Addin Fonua-Blake has been stood down over a breach of club standards. Picture: Hannah Peters/Getty Images

Instead, the Warriors boss said the damaging forward’s response to being stood down was in complete contrast.

“He’s owned it, apologised and has been terrific in his actions ever since Webby (Webster) made the decision,’’ George said.

“Those actions show us he’s committed and we’re also committed to Addin.

“We want nothing but to see him work hard for the club, his teammates and the coaching staff to be the best teammate he can be for the remainder of the year.’’

Fonua-Blake is bound for Cronulla next season after requesting an early release from his deal at the Warriors last November.

Tom Ale is expected to replace Fonua-Blake in the Warriors’ starting line-up on Sunday.

Originally published as NRL 2024: Addin Fonua-Blake stood down by Warriors for ‘breach of club standards’