Blake Ferguson.

Blake Ferguson. Photo: Michael Carayannis



Canberra's Blake Ferguson has been given a lifeline by the NRL, but will be suspended for a minimum four weeks as he undertakes an alcohol management program.


The Raiders board met with Ferguson on Wednesday morning, where the disgraced Origin representative agreed to the rehabilitation plan in order to remain at the club.


The NRL released a statement on Wednesday afternoon.


''The Raiders Board has determined the action today after the club met with Ferguson in Canberra following his dismissal from the NSW State of Origin camp," the statement read.


''The NRL will review Ferguson's progress with the club after a four-week period and assess his eligibility at that point.


"Both the NRL and the Raiders will await the outcome of court proceedings to determine a final position in relation to a charge of Indecent Assault laid by NSW Police.''


Raiders chairman John McIntyre had already indicated the club would stand by Ferguson.


"The key element that's got to come out of it in the end has got to be support for this young bloke," McIntyre said.


Ferguson was almost sacked by the Raiders after going on a drinking binge with then-teammate Josh Dugan after the round one loss to Penrith.


Dugan was axed, but there are elements of the Raiders administration that are unhappy Dugan was able to find a new home at the Dragons so easily and has been rewarded with a call up to the NSW Origin team.


Dugan was drinking with Ferguson at the time of the alleged indecent assault, which occurred at a Cronulla bar.