Jamie Soward’s ability to see out his final NRL season at St George Illawarra is in big doubt after the former NSW State of Origin five-eighth was dumped from first grade on Tuesday.
Soward was given time off by coach Steve Price to clear his head on Monday, before Price excluded him from the 17 named for Saturday’s NRL match against Newcastle.
Instead, Soward will play for NSW Cup team the Illawarra Cutters.
It is two years since Soward made his State of Origin debut for NSW, after he spearheaded the Dragons to a drought-breaking premiership in 2010.
In his No.6 jersey, the Dragons have named centre Chase Stanley.
Soward will join Penrith next season on a four-year deal, but the Panthers on Monday indicated they would not be interested in seeking an early release for the playmaker.
The Dragons also welcome back prop Dan Hunt, who missed last round’s 16-14 loss to Canterbury with a knee injury.
“Nathan Green has been playing well for the Illawarra Cutters and gets his chance in the centres while Chase Stanley moves to five-eighth, replacing Jamie Soward who will play for the Cutters,” Price said in a statement.
“Hopefully Brett Morris and Trent Merrin will come through the State of Origin game unscathed for NSW so they can take their places on Saturday night against a tough and talented Newcastle team.”