LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL (National Rugby League) has found itself in the midst of a heated debate regarding the participation of its players in other sporting tournaments.
Former Australian cricket captain, Michael Clarke, has come to the defense of these high-paid NRL superstars, arguing that they have every right to partake in these events.
The controversy was sparked by a column written by senior rugby league reporter Dean Ritchie in The Daily Telegraph, where he called for NRL clubs to regain control and prevent players from competing in "unsanctioned" tournaments such as the recent Koori Knockout and boxing bouts.
Ritchie stated that it is time for the clubs to put an end to elite players playing in rival sports during the off-season, deeming it absurd.
He accused these players of being "mollycoddled" and having too much power because they have never been told no.
The NRL stars who were specifically mentioned in the article were Josh Addo-Carr and Latrell Mitchell, both of whom participated in the Koori Knockout.
Addo-Carr, who plays a crucial role for the Bulldogs, was also involved in a brawl during the tournament and admitted to being knocked out.
This incident only fueled the debate further, with critics arguing that the players' involvement in such events puts their health and future performance at risk.
While the debate rages on, Michael Clarke's defense of the NRL players highlights the divide in opinions within the sporting community.
It remains to be seen whether the NRL clubs will take action to restrict their players' participation in other sports, or if they will continue to allow them the freedom to explore different sporting opportunities during the off-season.