Pearson wants independent medical
opinion

New Zealand Rugby League chairman Selwyn Pearson wants an independent medical officer to rule whether Kiwi players are unavailable for the end-of-season Tri Nations series.

Pearson suggests Cronulla doctor Peter Malouf take on the role to help prevent tension between the New Zealand league and NRL clubs which pressure their Kiwi stars into undergoing off-season surgery.

Malouf, who will retire from his position with the Sharks at the end of this season, says he'd be happy to provide an independent opinion. But Cronulla general manager Steve Rogers has voiced his opposition to the proposal, saying any decision on surgery for players should be left to the clubs.