League Notes: Former NSW State Of Origin Coach Slams Plans For External NRL Draft

Former New South Wales State of Origin coach Phil Gould "has labelled plans for an external NRL draft as 'ridiculous.'" Gould said that "he did not believe those at the top of the game fully understood the ramifications of instituting a draft." Gould: "I don't think they get it. You cannot compare how the game here in Australia has developed with how other sport codes around the world have developed their players. We are nothing like other codes and countries" (SYDNEY MORNING HERALD, 3/4). ... The Australian Rugby Union "will conduct a detailed review of its illicit drugs policy regardless of Thursday’s outcome when Karmichael Hunt’s cocaine charges reach court." Greater accent on education and prevention programs conducted with the Rugby Union Players Association "is certain." A rugby union source said, "Strong policy on illicit drugs is an issue for all the football codes and rugby must be vigilant" (Brisbane COURIER-MAIL, 3/4).