Debate has erupted over high-paid NRL players being allowed to partake in other sporting tournaments, with former Aussie cricket captain Michael Clarke vigorously defending their right to do so.
claiming “now is the time for NRL clubs to reclaim control” and stop players from contesting in “unsanctioned” events such as the recent Koori Knockout tournament, or“Elite players contesting rival sports and unsanctioned tournaments during the off-season has to end. It’s absurd,” Ritchie wrote, adding that “mollycoddled” held too much power these days “because no one has ever told them no”.
The former Test captain pointed to international cricketers playing in their local grade competitions to continue their match fitness and hone their skills. Clarke also questioned why playing in the Koori Knockout wouldn’t be a positive, allowing players to represent their culture and keep their match fitness up.However, Ritchie believes targets are painted on the heads of big players in off-season games, which could lead to serious injuries and missing games come the NRL season.
“Even the protocols out there... the HIA protocols aren’t there, Josh Addo-Carr is an elite player and he got knocked out and played on.” Jason Taumalolo fought on a recent boxing card with several other NRL stars. Picture: Robbie Bolton.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
‘You want the truth?’: Clarke in heated radio debate over ‘mollycoddled’ superstars’ side gigsRugby League: England has taken out Game one of a historic rugby league series at home against Tonga, despite a grandstand finish from the visitors.
Read more »
Papenhuyzen shopped to NRL rival in shock Storm move amid young gun’s emergenceNRL: New Zealand have ran up a huge score in their opening Pacific Championship game against Samoa at Eden park.
Read more »
Storm star shopped to rival in NRL bombshellStorm star Ryan Papenhuyzen has reportedly been shopped to at least one NRL club in a shock move by a third party linked to the club.
Read more »
She’s done it again! Aussie swim star breaks second WR in two daysSwimming: Aussie Kaylee McKeown breaks the 50m backstroke world record at the World Cup in Budapest.
Read more »
Leading NRL rookies of 2023 to combine for Fiji in clash with Cook IslandsNRL: The Haka from New Zealand side was headlined from two of the league's most damaging props facing off in a grueling stare down.
Read more »
Aussie homeowners issued grim warningHomeowners are being warned they could be left out of pocket if their property is impacted this bushfire season, as insurers and local governments eye changes in regulation.
Read more »