Courtesy of the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin
Pictured: Central Queensland product PJ Marsh, a former Maroons Origin representative. SMP Images
Rockhampton Rugby League has cleared the way for former NRL stars Nathan Merritt, Rhys Wesser, PJ Marsh and Andrew Walker to make a brief sporting comeback in this month's inaugural RRL Nines competition at Browne Park.
Event organiser Walson Carlos yesterday confirmed the four players' interest in the concept, with local clubs given the opportunity to buy one of the marquee players through a draft.
The nine-a-side tournament, which features an under-20s and senior division, will be held at Browne Park on March 28.
Carlos confirmed the six RRL clubs had entered at least two teams each, with the Woorabinda Warriors to earn approval.
He said teams would pay a fee to enter the draft where the marquee players would be selected a week prior to the tournament.
During the 12 hours of footy action, each team will play a minimum of three pool matches before the knockout finals on Sunday.
"The Nines tournament has the potential to kick off the Rockhampton Rugby League senior competition with an unprecedented wave of excitement," Carlos said.
"The idea behind the marquee player is to lift the profile of the tournament and give local footy fans an opportunity to get out and see some of their favourite former players in action."
The tournament will follow modified rules similar to the NRL Auckland Nines with the Rockhampton Leagues Club sponsoring a five-point bonus zone.
