Veteran rugby league reporter Phil Rothfield has explained why he believes the Origin series should be played after the regular season — and was met with heavy criticism.
Following NSW halfback Nathan Cleary’s potentially series ending hamstring injury, Rothfield sparked calls for the state vs state showcase to be moved.
He labelled it “cruel” for players who represent the Blues and Maroons to have to back-up for their club teams only days after playing on Wednesday night.
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Rothfield also explained that the Origin period “sabotages” the NRL for an extended period, removing the competition’s best from club teams.
“My view is this, I think it sabotages the NRL competition between rounds 12 and 20,” Rothfield said on NRL360 on Monday…
