Dumb and dumber, and now dumber yet again. Konrad Hurrell is turning into a liability, a disappointing blot on an exciting Warriors landscape. League's awesome freight train needs a massive rethink, to stay on the rails.
Hurrell faces a three or four week suspension on Wednesday night for a knee-up charge which left tackler Anthony Tupou with a horribly broken jaw. Hurrell had received warnings from the NRL for similar actions yet erred on the side of a contrary conduct charge against the Sharks.
Even if he has a defence, Hurrell foolishly tempted fate because a knee was definitely raised. The centre has just signed a new three year contract and expresses his strong Warriors loyalty. But don't tell me coach Andrew McFadden doesn't already wonder if the risks will outweigh the rewards.
The man who blows kisses off his hand after scoring tries might be kissing his career goodbye. Hurrell could be a legend, but is still too much of a myth. Even at his best, he is Puffing Koni operating in fits and starts. And there are already players snapping at his heels who have more skill and stamina even if they lack Hurrell's punch.
The power-packed Hurrell is one of the most damaging runners the NRL has ever seen. There are few subtleties to his game - his strength is his sheer strength, and it's best used when pointed straight ahead. But his career is going sideways.
