LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Match Review Committee (MRC) has given clearance to Xavier Willison for participation in the 2025 NRL Grand Final, while implications for a dummy-half selection might lead to changes in the line-up.
Following a Dangerous Contact charge against Luke Garner, Willison will incur only a $1000-1500 fine, allowing the Cook Islands international to compete against the Melbourne Storm. This outcome is a significant boost for the team.
"I didn't think it was bad. It's come back as just a fine," Willison shared with News Corp. regarding the decision. "I wasn't too worried about it. I didn't lose sleep over it."
Despite Willison's clearance, coach Michael Maguire faces a selection dilemma as Patrick Carrigan prepares to return from suspension. Carrigan is set to take his place in the No.13 jersey, leading to potential exclusion for either Cory Paix or Tyson Smoothy.
In a discussion with SEN early Monday morning, former Broncos captain Corey Parker indicated that Paix is the more likely candidate to be dropped. This would allow Ben Hunt to return to the starting dummy-half position, with Ezra Mam moving back into the halves.