LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Canterbury Bulldogs NRL coach Cameron Ciraldo has defended the club's approach amid reports of player unrest.
The coach did not confirm media reports that one of his players had walked out on the team after allegedly being punished for arriving late for training.
The player, who remains unnamed, believed that he was not late to training, according to The Daily Telegraph.
He requested time off from the Bulldogs due to personal reasons and has not returned to training since.
The player has not featured at NRL level for several weeks.
The Rugby League Players' Association is aware of the situation and is monitoring it closely.
The Daily Telegraph and The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the player was allegedly forced to wrestle with a dozen other players as a punishment.
The club's handling of the situation has come under scrutiny, with some questioning the appropriateness of using physical punishment as a disciplinary measure.
The coach defended the club's approach, stating that they have a strong culture and disciplinary framework in place.
He emphasized that the Bulldogs are committed to supporting their players both on and off the field.
The club will continue to address any issues internally and work towards a resolution.