Dane Gagai chooses Maori team over Indigenous for All Stars clash

Dane Gagai has opted to play for the Maori team rather than the Indigenous side ahead of the All Stars clash in February.

Australia international Gagai, who was eligible for both teams, represented the Indigenous All Stars between 2015-17, but has chosen to represent another part of his family heritage in the revamped fixture.

The two teams will compete for the Arthur Beetson Trophy on February 15, at AAMI Park.

Fans get to help choose selection for the teams ahead of the clash. Fans are allowed one submission for each team, voting pre-selected players by their respective position.

NRL senior manager of indigenous strategy Mark Deweerd commented: “The All Stars event is as much about the community as it is about the game itself.

“The chance for fans to have an input into the selection of the teams is the only opportunity across the game that allows fans to vote for who they want to see play.

“As the teams will spend the week engaging with the local community, it would be great to see both the Victorian community and the broader population get behind the game, to not only celebrate a great game of football showcasing wonderful talent but enjoy the cultural experience it has to offer as well.”