Welcome to The Fair Dinkum Department - a weekly deep dive into rugby league's hottest issues and whether or not we think they are real or ridiculous.
Damien Cook's omission from the NSW lineup has raised plenty of question marks over his representative future, while the pressure is mounting on Nathan Cleary ahead of the Origin opener.
Elsewhere, the decision from Canberra to rest their skipper for his 300th game has caused some controversy, while Newcastle find themselves in a tricky situation long-term.
Here's your weekly look at the biggest issues in the NRL, courtesy of The Fair Dinkum Department.
Check out the full episode in the YouTube links below or visit us on Spotify.
Is Damien Cook's representative career finished?
After being omitted from the NSW squad for the series opener and Australia's squad for the World Cup last year, putting him on the outer in regards to the rep arena.
With his 32nd birthday approaching and a plethora of quality hookers at both state and international level, there is a genuine chance Cook may not feature again at that level.
FAIR DINKUM DEPARTMENT - REAL OR RIDICULOUS? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Will this Origin series define Nathan Cleary's legacy?
Despite winning two premierships and three Origin series by the age of 25, there is still a belief within portions of the rugby league community that Nathan Cleary needs to perform.
The star halfback will line up for the Blues on Wednesday night with a point to prove.
FAIR DINKUM DEPARTMENT - REAL OR RIDICULOUS? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Do the Knights need to sign a five-eighth?
For the second time in his career, Kalyn Ponga's time in the No.6 jumper has come to an abrupt end, with the Knights switching their marquee man to fullback in their Round 13 victory.
And while the side are much better with Ponga at the back, it leaves a gaping hole in their playmaking stocks.
FAIR DINKUM DEPARTMENT - REAL OR RIDICULOUS? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Is the Jarrod Croker decision disrespectful to Wests Tigers?
After reaching game 299 over the weekend against the Rabbitohs, the decision has been made by Canberra to 'rest' Jarrod Croker in Round 14, allowing him to reach his milestone in front of his home fans at GIO Stadium.
But despite it being a seemingly positive gesture by the club, some have found a way to be critical.
FAIR DINKUM DEPARTMENT - REAL OR RIDICULOUS? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Have the New Zealand fans cost the Warriors?
After being forced to play in Australia throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Warriors have been back at home this season and it's brought a warm fuzzy feeling to the NRL.
That was until some clowns decided to invade the field on Saturday night - and it could cost the club long-term.
FAIR DINKUM DEPARTMENT - REAL OR RIDICULOUS? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
