Mal Meninga, the coach of the Perth Bears, expressed uncertainty regarding the limits of discussing rival players publicly amid an investigation by the NRL Integrity Unit concerning his remarks about two Canterbury players.
His interest in Bulldogs stars Matt Burton and Jacob Preston has attracted criticism, leading Canterbury to file a complaint and trigger an NRL inquiry.
This situation arises in the context of a newly established anti-tampering rule set for the 2026 season, which aims to prevent club officials and coaches from making statements about contracted players from other teams that could be interpreted as a recruitment tactic.
While discussing Burton and Preston, both of whom can start negotiating with other clubs beginning November 1 next year, Meninga hinted that the Bears would pursue them.
"There has also been a heap of noise around Matt Burton. Jacob Preston, he's someone coming off contract after 2027, we'll be in the picture," Meninga remarked.
His comments have prompted a reaction from Canterbury and led to scrutiny from the NRL's Integrity Unit, which is examining whether there was any breach of recruitment protocols.
Despite the investigation, Meninga claims he was unaware that his statements could lead to complications.
"I honestly wasn't aware of it until yesterday. I haven't worried too much … If I've done the wrong thing, I'll put my hand up," Meninga stated to Code Sports.
"I'm damned if I do and damned if I don't."