NSWCRU chief Bruce Worboys admitted that they had been unable to complete all of the SANZAR criteria, leaving three bidding parties from Victoria, two from Queensland and one from Western Sydney to compete with bids from New Zealand and South Africa for the final slot in the Australian conference.

"Participating in the EOI was a very positive and productive exercise for Country Rugby," said Worboys. "We thank the ARU for their support and guidance through the process. Unfortunately, we were unable to meet all of the key criteria set by SANZAR and felt it proper to withdraw our EOI to allow the ARU to work with the other applicants."

Smith appeared in the Wellington District Court yesterday, though the sanctions may not end with his fine and suspension. Further punishment from his employer, the NZRU, is not his only potential problem, as the Department of Immigration could choose to revoke his work permit.

A Samoan national, he had sought a discharge without conviction but Judge Craig Thompson refused to accept possible immigration problems outweighed the seriousness of the offence. If Smith's work permit was withdrawn he may have to leave the country.

Both players have been released after playing no part in New Zealand's loss to South Africa last weekend, but Gibbes will wait and see how they adjust to Waikato's structure before deciding on their inclusion.

"They're back in the squad this week but whether I play them or not, I'm not sure yet," Gibbes told the Waikato Times.