Cross not to Tour

[Darren]

Wallabies coach John Connolly has defended not taking league convert Ryan Cross on Australia's tour of Europe, believing it would have been unfair on more seasoned players.

Cross signed a two-year deal with the Western Force in July, but after finishing the NRL season he opted to take a break rather than compete in the Australian Provincial Championships with his new team.

That decision may well have cost Cross a spot in the 37-man squad for November's tour, as Connolly said he could not choose a player he had not seen play.

"I don't think it was fair on the players that played all year that he be selected," Connolly told the Sunday Telegraph.

---

It's a fair call really. It makes you wonder about Cross's commitment choosing not to play 3 APC matches and thus missing the Spring Tour. I guess he is coming off the end of a long season, wouldn't want him to get injured before he evenstarts for the Force!

[Sagerian]

I think even if he did play he should not be selected, give the players who played this whole year the job.

[Moses]

or at least the players who have run onto a union field this decade...

[inactive]

I agree with you both, what is this with league players getting paved the way into the wallabies without proving themselves....

[Sagerian]

It's not like we're that short on talent that we need them. If they want to come across, fine.. But they have to earn their way just like everyone else.