Wicks awaits CRL ruling

DANNY Wicks will not play for Grafton Ghosts until he is cleared to play by the Country Rugby League, club officials said yesterday.

Wicks, who will miss the trial game at Orara Valley today, quit the Newcastle Knights in December after being charged with the supply of ecstasy.

Grafton Ghosts announced they had signed the NRL star in January and he began attending training sessions.

Ghosts player manager Mark Hall said yesterday that the club had made the decision in the interests of the club, its sponsors and supporters.

“When the CRL makes a decision we will reassess our position and discuss any guidelines or conditions that might be attached to Danny’s signing,” Mr Hall said.

“We were a bit excited when Danny came back to town and thought he would be able to play with us.”

Mr Hall admitted the club had received some negative feedback about signing Wicks under the cloud of his drugs charges.

“But overall, people can’t wait to see him play – the club would still love to have him play.”

Country Rugby League chief executive Terry Quinn could not be contacted for comment.