Kaufusi free to play Origin I

Felise Kaufusi will lend his invaluable experience to the Maroons pack in the State of Origin opener after beating a tripping ban at the judiciary.

Kaufusi was facing a match on the sideline after incurring a grade-one charge at the judiciary for appearing to kick out at Jake Turpin in last Thursday's win over the Broncos.

In giving evidence, the star Storm back-rower repeatedly denied that he made any contact with Turpin while he was on the ground after tackling Tevita Pangai jnr, who had passed the ball.

Game 1 of the State of Origin will be played at 10pm next Wednesday.

[Source: NRL]