Sam Moa has praised Kiwi test coach Stephen Kearney for his hard line stance against the players banned from selection for mixing energy drinks with prescription drugs.

The Roosters prop said no player was bigger than the black and white jumper.

“Stephen has to be applauded for making a ballsy call in terms of his coaching career and standing down players who are of high significance to the New Zealand team,” Moa told AAP.

“The message he has given is that no one is bigger than the team, no one is guaranteed of their position and if you are not going to do the right thing by the Kiwi team, if you are not going to adhere to the standards required then you won’t be there.”