Josh Papalii's transition from Junior Kiwi to Queensland State of Origin enforcer is all but complete.

Queensland selectors have gone away from the loyalty that's helped win them seven straight State of Origin series.

The Canberra Raiders will meet with the NRL and Blake Ferguson in the next 24 hours to decide his future.

The NRL's reputation has taken further body blows following more off-field troubles involving players and fans.

Veteran South Sydney winger Nathan Merritt has been called into the New South Wales team for next week's State of Origin game two in Brisbane.

South Sydney forward George Burgess has been stood down by his ladder-leading NRL club after being charged with two counts of wilful damage following an incident in Cairns early on Monday.

NSW back-rower Greg Bird fears referees will be placed under greater pressure in State of Origin matches following the NRL's crackdown on fighting.

Jamie Soward has played his last NRL game for St George Illawarra, granted an early release to join Super League side the London Broncos on a short term deal.

The career of New South Wales and Canberra star Blake Ferguson is hanging in the balance following the NRL's decision to suspend the utility back's registration after police charged him with indecent assault.

Brisbane have turned around a horror run with a 32-12 NRL win over fellow battlers Wests Tigers at Suncorp Stadium.

The New South Wales State of Origin team insists it's business as usual despite a police investigation involving one of its players.