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Last Updated: Thursday, 27 July 2006, 08:33 GMT 09:33 UK
Morley avoids ban for Tri-Nations
Adrian Morley
Morley has already been banned for 19 weeks while with the Roosters
Great Britain forward Adrian Morley is set to play in the Tri-Nations Series after receiving a seven-match ban from the Australian NRL.

Morley has been suspended after using his knee in a tackle during Sydney Roosters' 25-0 defeat by Canterbury.

He pleaded guilty to the charge, and will miss the Roosters' last six games of the season.

Great Britain also have a warm-up match in Australia before the start of the Tri-Nations on 28 October.

The 29-year-old received a glowing character reference from Canterbury and Australia star Willie Mason in a letter to the disciplinary panel.

"I am writing in support of Adrian because I have a lot of respect for him as a person and as one of the toughest players in the toughest competition in the world," said Mason.

Morley admitted he is very unhappy with the way his time in Australia has come to an end, with the Roosters languishing third from bottom of the NRL table.

"I'm bitterly disappointed my NRL and Roosters career finished this way," Morley told the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.

"I would have liked to have played for the Roosters but that's not to be.

"I'd like to thank the NRL for a fair hearing."

The news he will be available for the Tri-Nations will be a welcome boost for Great Britain coach Brian Noble.

Morley has a poor disciplinary record and could have received a lengthy ban.

He has missed 19 weeks through suspension since joining the Roosters in 2001.

In the opening Test of the 2003 Ashes Series he was sent off after just 12 seconds for using his elbow in the first tackle of the match.

Morley will return to England next season to play for Warrington in Super League.



SEE ALSO
Brits told to take NRL challenge
19 Jun 06 |  Rugby League
Prop Morley signs for Warrington
13 Jun 06 |  International
Morley nears Super League return
31 May 06 |  Super League


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