Seems odd that all rumours included several players, and yet only Hock gets punished (for now). Scapegoat? Or instigator?
I'd still like to know a bit more detail, but as others have suggested, we'll probably never know.

Just on the ale on sat night after the match. Squad were on a drinking ban. Anything else he may do after a beer no surprise eithe

Looks like the only thing you missed off is being hung drawn and quartered.

Courtesy Harrigan total rl:

So, the info I have received today is that...

This morning, Hocks room was found smashed up. Hock, Hardaker, Graham were all named to me and had all been ejected from the squad.

Then, McIlorums name was out in the fold. This is when I put it vaguly (much to everyone's frustrations) on here.

About 2 hours ago I was told only Hock had gone and the others would have no part to play in Saturdays game, although I agree, only Graham was a cert.

"It is not drink related, something else"

Now the above made me think what you are all thinking right now, but I'm going to say he's not seriously that dumb and my second thought was fighting, which was also suggested on here later on.

The reason I believe that is because the others would be out too if it was what you all thought straight away after reading that quote.

Sorry for not sharing earlier though. I promised not to give details, just that something was happening.

Wouldn't make sense to pick Hock as the scapegoat. He, like Graham, seem certain starters. Why wouldn't you make it Hardaker instead who is unlikely to play unless Tomkins is injured if the others were guilty too.

do you think I am being unreasonable, given his appalling record?

Particularly as this is the biggest stage in world rugby league at the eleventh hour before the competition starts. I dont wish the man physical harm (therefore no hanging, drawing and quartering), but he has been allowed so many 'second chances'

I actually don't blame Mcnamara for picking him,in rugby terms, Hock has that x-factorthat England are lacking. However the guy is clearly a numpty and once again has let himself down and everyone who has continued to support him.

I'm with Northus, interesting that 4 players were named, but one was punished (so far)

Glad to see Ferres in,he should have been in from the start

A bit of scandal just before the world cup kicks off, the media will be all over it, this could turn out to be a good bit of promo!

If SM had the bottle to actually pick players on form then we'd never be in this position. Ferres deserves the squad place imo, he should have had it from the start.

Well that’s probably his last bite at the International cherry, he can look back in his old age & reminisce fondly about his antics – what a scamp.

At least he had a nice trip to South Africa.

Good selection that

.

Shame Hock is replaced by a plodder

Im sure the Aussie pack would much prefer to be playing against Ferres rather than Hock. Cant see them being to bothered by his inclusion. Hock on the other hand might of at least give them something to think about and ruffled a few feathers.