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Stuart to axe Raiders pair for NRL opener

3 minute read

Canberra pair Corey Horsburgh and Corey Harawira-Naera appear set to be dropped for the NRL's opening round as a result of off-field incidents.

COREY HARAWIRA-NAERA of the Raiders.
COREY HARAWIRA-NAERA of the Raiders. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Canberra coach Ricky Stuart says forwards Corey Horsburgh and Corey Harawira-Naera only have themselves to blame after off-field incidents pushed them to the back of the NRL selection queue.

Horsburgh faces a charge of low-range drink-driving on January 3 while Harawira-Naera will also appear in the ACT Magistrates Court after he was charged with high-range drink-driving on Christmas Day.

"It is disappointing but it's not my job to be keeping their spot in the 17," Stuart told reporters on Thursday.

"That's their job and they've made it harder for themselves.

"They're upset with themselves and have put themselves on the back foot.

"They know it was a bad choice. I've left it, they've got their court cases pending."

English recruit Ryan Sutton, former Gold Coast captain Ryan James and the fit-again Emre Guler all look set to benefit from their fall from grace.

"We've got others in the footy team I've got to try get ready for game one," Stuart said.

"It won't be a disturbance; there will be somebody else there to take their spot.

"We've got plenty of depth and it just gives somebody else an opportunity."

The Raiders play their only pre-season trial against the Sydney Roosters on February 27.

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