Inu opts out of two-year Mormon mission

The Kiwis and Parramatta Eels can breathe easy - rising star Krisnan Inu has decided against walking away from rugby league for a two-year Mormon mission.

On the eve of the Eels' National Rugby League (NRL) elimination semifinal against the Bulldogs, Inu confirmed the mission had been canned in favour of continuing his league career as a role model for youngsters of the same faith.

"It is a case where I believe I can do more for the church by staying," Inu told the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.

"I had a talk with my parents, and together we decided that it is best if I pursue my career. In no way does this mean I am losing faith."

Inu, whose father is a bishop, spoke this season of the need to quit the NRL for two years and complete his mission overseas, following the path of compatriot and now Cronulla centre Fraser Anderson.

"At first I did feel pressure, and then as the games kept coming and I started playing better, people saw the positives of me staying."

One of the finds of the NRL season, Inu looks certain to add to his solitary test cap against the Kangaroos in Wellington next month and make his first senior tour for the Kiwis in Britain later in October.

- NZPA