James Packer’s EA has been forced to go out and buy a bigger stress ball for the casino mogul, after NSW’s gaming regulator confirmed the inevitable for his Barangaroo property.

James Packer’s hopes of operating his prized $2.4 billion Barangaroo property as planned have seemingly been dashed.

The special inquiry into Ruby Princess will have to report without being able to question two key federal officers who helped clear the cruise ship.