LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Penrith Panthers legend Greg Alexander has addressed recent footage of trainer Shane Elford spraying water on the ball before a kick-off against the Cowboys.
The incident has led to speculation about the potential for the Panthers to face financial penalties from the NRL, as the video sparked discussions on whether it constituted ball tampering.
While some believed Elford intentionally made the ball slippery, others argued he might have just been cleaning it.
The NRL is reportedly aware of the footage and may impose fines on the Panthers.
Veteran reporter Phil Rothfield suggested on Sky Sports radio, "Could this be seen as ball tampering? I guess a little water on the ball is going to make it a bit more difficult for whoever is taking the kick." He further commented, "I think it is against the spirit of the game.
It's not a major scandal, but I think the NRL will certainly fine Shane Elford." Rothfield noted that others had indicated this isn't the first time Elford has been involved in similar practices.
Alexander, responding to claims that such actions are common in the league, disagreed, insisting he has never witnessed it before.
He humorously referenced the Australian cricket ball-tampering scandal, remarking, "It was a sandpaper moment...
I can't tell you [if Penrith are the only team that do it] because I haven't witnessed it happening before." As the situation unfolds, the likelihood of a fine appears imminent for both Elford and the Panthers.