Brisbane forward Sam Thaiday won't be seeking an apology from teammate Adam Blair over the chicken wing tackle inflicted on him during last weekend's Anzac Test.
Blair has been given a one-game NRL ban for the tackle on Thaiday, which occurred midway through the second half of Australia's 16-0 win over New Zealand in Newcastle.
It means Blair will miss a second consecutive Broncos match due to suspension and prompted ex-Bronco Gorden Tallis to label the Kiwi international as "one of the dirtiest players on the field."
Thaiday has however played down the incident, claiming he's been surprised by how much discussion it's created.
"Last time I heard this much about chicken wings, KFC were releasing the wicked wings," Thaiday said.
"We're playing for our countries, playing a hard game ... there was no need for any apology."
Thaiday says the most disappointing outcome of the situation is the absence of Blair for this Saturday's clash with Manly.
The Broncos will take on the Sea Eagles at Suncorp Stadium in what is actually a home game for Manly as part of an NRL double-header.
With Alex Glenn and Andrew McCullough also missing due to injury, Thaiday admits Blair's presence would have been handy against the Sea Eagles.
"It's a bit of a hole in our side but I'm sure all those boys will be back pretty soon and ready to play," he said.
- AAP