Parramatta have named star five-eighth Dylan Brown just days after he was charged with five counts of sexually touching a woman without consent.
But the Eels remain waiting on the NRL, who could still stand the Kiwi international down before they take on Canterbury on Monday.
Brown, who was granted bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, doesn’t fit the criteria to be automatically suspended under the NRL’s no-fault stand-down policy given his charge only carries a maximum prison sentence of five years and not the required 11.
But the NRL has the ability to step in and stand down players on lesser charges, typically involving offences towards women.
Parramatta’s decision indicates Brown is in the required headspace to play despite the charges, but they’ve acknowledged the final call doesn’t rest with them.
“The NRL has given permission for Dylan Brown to be named in the team while they consider whether he is subject to the no fault stand down policy,” the Eels said in a statement.
“We are continuing to work with the NRL integrity unit and NSW Police.”
Parramatta have named back-up half Daejarn Asi in their extended reserves, the former Warrior likely to come into the side should Brown be stood down.
They also have the option of moving fullback Clint Gutherson into No.6 and shuffling their backline, with Haze Dunster also on the extended list.
Australian Associated Press