Api Koroisau sanctioned further by NSWRL over Origin bubble breach

Tom Naghten

Api Koroisau sanctioned further by NSWRL over Origin bubble breach image

Panthers and NSW hooker Api Koroisau has been fined a further $15,000 for his breach of the State of Origin COVID-19 bubble during the recent series.

Koroisau has already been sanctioned by the NRL over the matter, but now the NSWRL has proposed its punishment.

It's understood the 28-year-old brought a woman from outside the Origin bubble into camp while in Brisbane ahead of Game II.

It's already cost him $35,000 and a two-game suspension by the NRL, NSWRL boss Dave Trodden said that was factored into their sanction.

"When a player is selected to represent the Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues, the player is placed into a privileged position whereby he or she is trusted by the Board to uphold all of the standards, protocols and values of NSWRL," Trodden said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The Board is extremely disappointed that in this case, the trust which was placed in Koroisau has been breached.

"If the Board is to consider further recommendations for his selection in NSW teams, it will need to be convinced he has earned the right to be once again trusted to uphold all of the standards, protocols and values of NSWRL."

Unless Koroisau contests the penalty, the fine will be donated to the PCYC, the NSWRL has proposed.

Koroisau released a statement following the news, expressing his remorse at the situation.

"I made the choice to do the wrong thing and my actions have brought shame and embarrassment to many people, especially my wife and children. I will be forever sorry," he said.

"I sincerely apologise to the NRL, NSW Rugby League, Panthers, the sponsors and stakeholders, and all my teammates for letting you down.

"I apologise to the fans for putting our game at risk, particularly at such a challenging time for so many people.

"I apologise to my wife Amy for the pain I have caused. I’ve hurt you and the girls with my selfish, thoughtless actions.

"I’m determined to become a better partner, father and protector, and hopefully rebuild trust, and earn back your love and our family.

"I will work hard every day moving forward to show my wife, my children, my team and the Rugby League community that I am not defined by my mistakes and I will grow from this."

Koroisau returns to the Penrith starting 13 for this Saturday's clash the Roosters.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.