Robert Lui selected for emerging Maroons

[Discussion_Bot]

Wests Tigers halfback Robert Lui has been selected in Queensland Emerging Origin squad, the stepping-stone for Maroons selection. [ABC Grandstand](http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/12/09/3089611.htm?site=sport§ion=rugbyleague) reports that Lui was one of nine new players selected in the fourteen-man squad.In a welcome shot in the arm for Robert Lui, the controversial Wests Tigers half-back has been picked for what is considered the stepping stone to Maroons selection - the Queensland Emerging Origin camp tutored by Wayne Bennett.Lui has only recently returned to Wests Tigers training after being charged with assaulting his pregnant partner. The Tigers lifted a ban on Lui being involved in club activities after his bail conditions were changed last month, enabling him to have contact with his partner. Lui is among nine new faces in the 14-strong squad to attend the three day camp next month, including another who has made headlines off the field - Sydney Roosters rake Jake Friend.

 

[redemption]

I was really pleased for the kid when I heard this on the radio this afternoon!

I just hope Mal & Benny help him stay off the grog in camp!!!!

 

[Spartan117]

I was happy conveniently forgetting he was a QLDer… Good Luck Rob.

Here's hoping he rips in in 2011

 

[weststigercraig]

Congrats Lui! Will be a star of the future!

 

[Guest]

QRL boss gives Lui green light

* Steve Ricketts
* From: The Daily Telegraph
* December 15, 2010 12:00AM

THE Queensland Rugby League yesterday defended its decision to select controversial Wests Tigers halfback Robert Lui in the 2011 Emerging Origin squad, despite his impending court appearance on serious assault charges.

Lui is back at training with Wests Tigers after his bail conditions were changed last month, enabling him to have contact with his pregnant partner, Taleah Rae Backo.

A Townsville junior, Lui faces nine charges involving Backo, including two counts of assault occasioning actual body harm. He is due back in court next week.

QRL managing director Ross Livermore said he consulted with the Tigers before giving the selectors the go-ahead to consider Lui.

Livermore said Lui deserved the presumption of innocence, but his place in the squad could come under review, depending on the outcome of court proceedings.

Lui played 17 NRL games this year after making his top-grade debut in 2009\. He is one of three halfbacks in the Emerging Squad, but Ben Barba (Bulldogs) and Daly Cherry-Evans (Manly) were chosen at fullback and five-eighth respectively as the selectors broke with tradition to name a young "shadow" Origin side.

Chairman of selectors Des Morris said coach Wayne Bennett wanted to run the emerging squad as a team, so players were chosen in position as much as possible.

With Origin winger Israel Folau having defected to AFL, Emerging Squad members Daniel Vidot (Canberra) and Justin O'Neill (Melbourne) can stake their claims.

sFolau officially became an AFL player on November 1, but was welcomed back into the league fold when the history-making Queensland side celebrated five straight series wins in Brisbane last weekend.

The QRL hosted the weekend for players and their families, with Melbourne halfback Cooper Cronk the only absentee, as he was holidaying in the United States.

The players were each presented with a sculptured hand inside a glass case, with the series wins depicted on the fingers.

"Israel was a big part of our success and was entitled to be there," Livermore said. "The team had dinner at the Tatts club on Friday and Saturday was more of a family day.

"Greg Inglis couldn't make it up until Saturday night, but he made the effort and everyone was delighted to see him."

 

[prattenpark]

Good for him.
Any time spent around Bennet and his influence has gotta be a good thing. Should also make him knuckle down and see what a bright future he could have.
(Fingers and toes crossed that he hasn't blown it)

 

[tigeress]

Good for him.
Any time spent around Bennet and his influence has gotta be a good thing. Should also make him knuckle down and see what a bright future he could have.
(Fingers and toes crossed that he hasn't blown it)

I agree PP. Lets hope all goes well for Lui if he has to attend court on these charges. If he manages to come through this unscathed it will be great for him and the club, as he seems to have heaps of talent :righton: