Mason dropped

Test forward Willie Mason's been dropped ahead of this weekend's National Rugby League match against Canberra at Canberra Stadium. Mason, who has been in indifferent form in recent weeks, is part of a six-man interchange bench.

The team will be boosted by the return of Braith Anasta from a sternum injury and Steve Reardon from a back complaint. Luke Patten is out with an injured shoulder and Hazem El Masri drops back to fullback. Brent Sherwin is also under an injury due to a leg injury.

The team is: -

Hazem el Masri Shane Marteene Nigel Vagana Willie Talau Matt Utai Jonathan Thurston Brent Sherwin Braith Anasta Steve Reardon Glen Hughes Steve Price Corey Hughes Mark O'Meley

Interchange: -

Andrew Ryan Willie Mason Travis Norton Jamie Feeney Adam Perry Dennis Scott (two to be omitted)