Dual-code international turned player manager Mat Rogers, who attended The Southport School, said the GPS system had grown to the point the schools are effectively professional academies.

Former dual-code star Mat Rogers was less optimistic, saying the money on offer, up to AUD $3.1 million a season for elite players, could quickly shift the balance.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s departure still stings. Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers and Lote Tuqiri all took the cash on offer. Sammy Burgess ducked over for a World Cup and came back.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s departure still stings. Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers and Lote Tuqiri all took the cash on offer. Sammy Burgess ducked over for a World Cup and came back.

After the Mat Rogers, Wendell Sailor and Lote Tuqiri defections (before they all eventually came back), there was the Andrew Johns will he or won’t he jump circus and then Mark Gasnier ...

The idea is backed by former Origin greats Bryan Fletcher (NSW) and Mat Rogers (QLD), who are helping to dial up the rivalry in the lead-up to Game One through PR and social content.