Reports from Australia suggest NSW Blues players do not want Timana Tahu back for Origin III - but NSW officials fear they will be labelled racists if they choose to overlook him.
Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper reported yesterday that a source close to the Blues camp indicated Tahu was set
to reclaim his position for the final match on July 7 at ANZ Stadium at the expense of Joel Monaghan.
But the Daily Telegraph also revealed that bringing Tahu back into the Blues fold could result in a player revolt, with some former team-mates still angry about his decision to quit camp without telling them.
NSWRL chief executive Geoff Carr said his organisation would welcome Tahu back but stressed it was a decision for coach Craig Bellamy and the four NSW selectors - Bob Fulton, Laurie Daley, Geoff Gerard and Bob McCarthy.
"If NSW don't pick him, they could be accused of being racist," the Telegraph said it was told. "It's a messy situation. It could get further complicated because some of his team-mates weren't happy Timana walked out without talking to them or Joey [Andrew Johns]. A lot of players felt let down.
"They are dirty but I reckon [selectors] are going to have to pick him."
Carr confirmed Tahu's name would be in the mix.
"Timana elected to take a course of action before the second game because of his personal beliefs," Carr said.
"As far as the NSWRL is concerned, we respect him for that decision. As a result, Timana will be considered for a place in Origin III by the selectors."
Tahu left camp after taking offence at a racist comment from then Blues assistant coach Johns. Before departing, he collected his $800 daily allowance for being in camp.
All NSW players publicly back Tahu's stance but the Daily Telegraph maintained that, privately, some remained upset. Tahu has yet to declare himself available for Origin III.
He has been named in the Parramatta side to play Newcastle tomorrow night but has not trained much this week.
Tahu plans to take his issue with Johns to the Australian Human Rights Commission. Tahu has agreed to conciliation talks with Johns and to also meet with the NRL's Indigenous Council.
