The NSWRL have told Blues skipper Paul Gallen he's ineligible to win the Brad Fittler Medal following his back-dated suspension by ASADA.
Gallen, who was named man of the series after leading the Blues to a first Origin triumph in nine years, was in contention for the medal which is awarded to the best NSW player at an annual gala dinner.
But after the NRL ruled this week that players banned by ASADA as a result of the long-running investigation into Cronulla's supplement program in 2011 cannot win the Dally M Medal, the NSWRL said they were left in an awkward position.
"Earlier this week we asked the NRL for guidance on the terms of Paul Gallen's suspension," NSWRL chief executive David Trodden said.
"We did so as we did not wish to do something which was inconsistent with the NRL's philosophy and put Paul in a difficult position as a consequence.
"The NRL has come to a determination that Paul should be ineligible for awards that they control. In order to be consistent, our board feels that we should come to a similar view.
"After a board meeting this morning, it was decided that Paul would not be eligible for awards at the Brad Fittler Medal night on September 10.
"Paul has been a wonderful servant for NSW. He is going through a difficult period at the moment during which he has our support.
"He has been subjected to an enormous amount of scrutiny in recent times and we do not wish to add to that.
"I have spoken with Paul about the decision and he is understandably disappointed.
"We are also disappointed to be placed in this position, but we understand the stance which the NRL has taken on the issue."
A spokesman for the NSWRL confirmed Gallen would be allowed to attend the ceremony on September 10 just not accept any awards.
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