Jacob Gagai is set to come to the rescue of a depleted South Sydney and debut in Las Vegas after the NRL permitted him to serve his one-match suspension in the All Stars game.
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Gagai, 28, is likely to slot into a Rabbitohs backline missing Jack Wighton (suspension), Campbell Graham, Tyrone Munro (injuries) and Izaac Thompson (visa complications) for the opening-round clash against Manly.
His debut would come after three seasons playing for the Rabbitohs' NSW Cup side, after stints in the reserves at Newcastle and Central Queensland.
Gagai received a one-match suspension for laying a high tackle on George Jennings in the State Championship on NRL grand final day last October.
But the Rabbitohs lodged paperwork to permit Gagai to serve the ban in the All Stars match on Friday, when he had been due to play for the Maori side alongside brother Dane.
The NSWRL initially rejected the Rabbitohs' application, but the club presented the NRL with new evidence on Friday and NRL judiciary chairman Geoffrey Bellew overturned the original ruling.
"We would like to thank Justice Bellew for his declaration here regarding Jacob's suspension and avoiding what would have been a substantial injustice," Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly said.
Gagai is one of a handful of players vying to line up on what appears a vacant wing spot for the Rabbitohs this season.
Munro, Taane Milne, Richard Kennar and Isaiah Tass are other options.
Australian Associated Press
