Brad Murray, pictured here playing for Wentworthville in 2011, has been named to start for Wyong this weekend. Picture: Angelo Soulas Source: The Daily Telegraph
BRAD Murray is hoping to return to the NRL after yesterday taking the biggest step in his unlikely comeback by being named to start for Wyong in the NSW Cup this weekend.
The announcement last night of his return to professional rugby league comes spectacularly on the eve of his return to court today over his alleged role in the betting plunge on the exotic first score market for the Cowboys to kick a penalty goal in the round 24 match against the Bulldogs in 2010.
The alleged NRL match fixing case surrounding former Bulldogs prop Ryan Tandy's efforts to concede a penalty against the Cowboys which shocked the game is set to continue today with John Elias, Jai Ayoub - the son of Murray's former manager Sam Ayoub - and Murray all before the court.
After fronting court Murray will travel to Wyong to train with his new teammates.
Murray's new manager Steve Deacon said he was in a good head space and desperate to move on from the darkest period in his life.
Murray has been through hell after being implicated in the alleged betting scandal and has spent the previous two seasons playing in the local Newcastle competition for Newcastle Wests.
It is understood he has been so impressive in the local competition that Manly were interested in throwing him a lifeline to replace Liam Foran.
The deal collapsed and Murray chose to play with Wyong to remain close to friends and family, rejecting offers from the Queensland Cup.
Wyong coach Paul Stringer met with Murray for coffee two weeks ago and immediately signed him up after seeing he was ready to move on with his career.
"He seemed like a really decent young kid who has been put under incredible stress and pressure in the past," Stringer said.
"As a team we're starting something new and I guess he's at the same stage in his career."
NSWRL boss Geoff Carr said the NSWRL and Country Rugby League associations would not look to suspend Murray while his court case resumes today.
The Wyong Roos - the newest team to compete in the premier reserve grade competition without any affiliation to an NRL club - play Newcastle at Morrie Breen Oval on Sunday where Murray will make his debut at halfback.
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