LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Sam Hughes' brush with referee Kasey Badger has raised a few eyebrows in the Rugby League world, sparking debate and dividing fans after the Canterbury Bulldogs player was fined $3000 for his actions but managed to avoid suspension.
The incident occurred during the Bulldogs' clash with the Wests Tigers, where Hughes was caught pushing Badger aside while standing in the defensive line.
This incident bore similarities to one involving Melbourne Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes earlier in the season.
The Storm's Hughes received a one-game ban for pushing referee Chris Butler during a match against the Warriors, with NRL head of football Graham Annesley stating that it is never acceptable to push a referee.
However, the Bulldogs' Hughes escaped a ban despite his actions towards referee Badger.
While the contact was not as forceful as the Storm player's incident, Hughes was seen shoving the female referee aside as the Tigers' Lachlan Galvin made a move towards the try line.
Although the NRL takes a firm stance on player-referee contact, Hughes was only handed a Grade 1 contrary conduct charge and fined $3000.
This decision has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning why he was not suspended while others believed he was unfairly treated and blamed the referee for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The sporting world is abuzz with chatter over the incident, adding fuel to the fire of the ongoing debate in the Rugby League community.