Andrew Johns, a staunch advocate for rugby league loyalty, has unequivocally rejected any notions that New South Wales should be able to include Moses Leota in State of Origin.
The crux of Leota's eligibility revolves around timing, and unfortunately, that timing just doesn't align correctly.
Leota moved from New Zealand to New South Wales months after turning 13, which clashes with a rule necessitating players to have resided in the state before this age threshold.
"Hard line, nope," he stated emphatically on Nine's Sunday Footy Show.
"Where do you stop? Four months, six months, nine months? Where do you stop? (The cut off is) 13 (years old), that's it."
Understandably, New South Wales is eager to find a solution, especially after Payne Haas' recent injury has created a significant gap in their front row options, making Leota a potential relief.
However, Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater remains firm in his stance, referencing past Origin eligibility controversies.
"Ronaldo Mulitalo missed an Origin jersey years ago because of this exact situation," Slater remarked.
This discussion arises amidst a larger transformation of Origin eligibility rules, as the ARLC has recently revised criteria to permit players to compete in Origin while also representing a Tier 1 nation other than Australia.