LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a fiery clash, Michael Clarke has responded to veteran rugby league journalist Dean 'Bulldog' Ritchie's criticism of NRL clubs banning players from participating in non-sanctioned events.
The debate arose after Josh Addo-Carr, a Canterbury Bulldogs star, was involved in a wild brawl during the Koori Knockout tournament.
Addo-Carr's involvement in the incident resulted in a $5000 fine and a two-game ban, preventing his selection for the Pacific Championships Tests against Samoa and New Zealand.
Addo-Carr claimed that he was knocked out early in the game but continued playing, suggesting that the incident influenced his role in the post-game scenes.
Ritchie, writing for the Daily Telegraph, expressed his belief that it was "absurd" for NRL players to participate in unsanctioned events like the Koori Knockout and boxing bouts.
He argued that clubs should have the power to prevent their players from engaging in such activities.
Clarke, however, disagreed with Ritchie's viewpoint.
During a debate on the Big Sports Breakfast program, the former Australian cricket captain compared NRL players participating in non-sanctioned events to Australian cricketers playing club cricket with their local teams.
Clarke emphasized the importance of encouraging Indigenous players, like Addo-Carr, to take part in tournaments that hold significance to their communities rather than discouraging their involvement.
The clash between Clarke and Ritchie highlights the ongoing discussion surrounding NRL players' participation in non-sanctioned events and the power of clubs to ban them.
The issue raises questions about player autonomy and the balance between personal interests and club obligations.
As the debate continues, the NRL will likely face pressure to establish clearer guidelines and regulations regarding players' involvement in external competitions.