Ashley Klein, a prominent NRL referee, has openly acknowledged his struggle with a gambling addiction, reportedly amounting to losses of up to $400,000.
In a statement, Klein remarked, "Many years ago I developed a problem with gambling on horse racing and greyhound racing."
He clarified, "This gambling was not related to any betting on rugby league, and my job as a referee has never been impacted."
Klein further explained, "I received help to deal with the problem and closed all associated betting accounts. This was a difficult period of my life but one which did not in any way influence my job as a match official."
He is scheduled to officiate State of Origin II on Wednesday in Melbourne, marking his 14th consecutive Origin match.
There is no indication that Klein placed bets on rugby league, and the NRL has acknowledged his situation.
The NRL stated, "The NRL first became aware of this matter in 2019, at which time it was investigated to the satisfaction of NRL management at the time."
They added, "The NRL subsequently took appropriate steps to ensure there were no breaches of NRL rules and policies."
The league made it clear, "At no stage has Ashley Klein's position as an NRL match official been impacted. The NRL takes proactive steps as a matter of course to provide education relating to rules and policy." They concluded, "Given this is an employment matter, it would not be appropriate to comment further."