LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL has come under fire for deceptive detail in its promotional ad for the upcoming Las Vegas games, which features a controversial tackle by Elliot Whitehead.
The ad, targeting the US audience, showcases the "No pads, no helmets, no fear" style of rugby league, but has raised eyebrows due to the inclusion of a head-high tackle.
Whitehead, from the Raiders, is seen making clear shoulder contact to Dale Finucane's head, a tackle that resulted in Finucane being concussed and forced to leave the field during the Magic Round in 2022.
Despite being put on report and handed 10 minutes in the bin, Whitehead escaped suspension after the game.
This has led to criticism from fans, who question the NRL's decision to use footage of a head-high tackle to promote the game, especially considering the league's efforts to discourage head-high contact.
As more NRL players speak out about their battle with concussion, the use of this footage in the ad has only added fuel to the fire of the ongoing debate surrounding player safety in rugby league.