The Temora teenager has played in the Wagga club's last two games due to a shortage in the front row.

However four games, which equates to more than 35 per cent of the season, is required to qualify for finals.

Waratahs presented their case to the board this week to have Tudulu eligible to tackle Wagga City in the decider at Conolly Rugby Complex but it was denied.

They are considering an appeal with co-coach Michael Davis concerned about risking the safety of his players.

"The number one thing, and the referees agree, that you have to make sure of players safety," Davis said.

"The most critical thing is having a safe and stable front row and I'm not putting myself in a position to pick somebody just to get a game started that is not up to that level.

"That's why we asked for dispensation for Luke."

Kurt Holzl has been at hooker for most of the season but is in isolation due to upcoming army commitments.

Harry Cook (broken nose) and Trent Martin (broken ankle) are also on the sidelines.

If their appeal is unsuccessful Rob Wiltshire will move from the second row to fill the void.

However he is their only option at hooker while Apimeleki Kula and Sam Palmer are their only available front row options for the game.

"We run the risk that if there is an injury we've got a grand final with uncontested scrums," Davis said.

"That's not good for the competition."

Davis was hopeful the board would allow the 17-year-old to play after linking with Waratahs after the Tuskers completed their season.

"From my point of view with the year we have had there has been a lot of give and take including allowing Albury and Leeton to play in second grade, when they are well and truly first grade standard," he said.

"They may not have known that at the start, but it was a decision made by the board to allow that, so they have been lenient in other areas."

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