Sport

NRL: Addin Fonua-Blake stood down from Warriors in shock move

18:25 pm on 23 May 2024

Addin Fonua-Blake. Photo: NRL Photos / www.photosport.nz

Addin Fonua-Blake has been dropped from the Warriors' side for Sunday's fixture against the Dolphins.

Head coach Andrew Webster said Fonua-Blake had removed himself from the dressing room after the 22-20 win over Penrith and wasn't present for the post-match team address or the team song, according to a statement released by the club late on Thursday.

"This doesn't meet our standards and Addin accepts full responsibility for his behaviour," Webster said.

Fonua-Blake only spent 49 minutes on the field in the team's 22-20 win over the Panthers on Sunday, around 15 minutes less than usual.

Webster has named a replacement for Fonua-Blake in the initial 23-man squad, however, the most logical replacement would be bringing Tom Ale onto the interchange and move Mitch Barnett to prop.

The Warriors are welcoming back Marata Niukore this weekend. He can move into a starting second row spot.

Fonua-Blake was named in the Dally M Team of the Year in 2023 and subsequently asked for an early contract release. He eventually signed with the Sharks and agreed to play out the 2024 season.

The Warriors have acquired James Fisher-Harris from the Panthers to replace Fonua-Blake next season.