NRL integrity unit questioned

THE NRL’s integrity unit has been asked to answer questions on its own consistency in a report requested by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC).

Less than five weeks out from the March 14 seasonopener between Melbourne and Brisbane, player behaviour remains the biggest issue in the game after a tumultuous summer of off-field dramas.

The subject was a key component of a commission meeting last Wednesday, when the ARLC asked the NRL to work with clubs, players and their union to reduce integrity matters.

Consistency of punishments is still a big talking point. While chairman Peter Beattie defended the integrity unit at the weekend on social media, he confirmed a report into the matter had been requested.

“The issue of consistency is often seen through the prism of club interest & not what is in the best interests of the game,” Beattie tweeted. “Nevertheless, it is an important issue & that is why the ARLC has asked the Integrity Unit to report on the issue of consistency in the first half of this year.”

The issue of consistency in punishments is set to dominate discussion in the early stages of the season. Ben Barba’s deregistration and Greg Inglis’ sacking as Kangaroos captain are among punishments handed out, with other issues still before the courts.

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg has vowed to come down hard on any players found guilty of serious offences, a stance firmly backed by the ARLC.