A request by Australia to change a player in their World Cup squad has been denied by tournament officials, though Samoa have had a similar request granted.
Samoa had asked to replace Reni Maitua with Tony Puletua. Due to injuries the Samoa squad has been reduced to 21 players and the loss of three players in similar positions was considered by the tournament to be exceptional circumstances.
Harrison Hansen, Frank Winterstein and Reni Maitua have been formally removed from the squad.
RLWC2013 Competition Rules provide for a squad of 24 players to compete in the tournament.
After Oct 21 any requests for changes to this squad are strictly at the discretion of the tournament and only granted in exceptional circumstances.
