Party over as Staines commits COVID breach
FOUR-TRY Penrith hero Charlie Staines has become the second NRL player to breach biosecurity protocols after hosting a celebration at his home following his stunning debut.
Staines, who ran in the quartet of tires in the Panthers’ 56-24 thrashing of Cronulla, has been stood down by the club pending a notice from the NRL about the next step.
In the wake of his magical NRL debut the 19-year-old celebrated with family and friends at home, hosting 10 visitors.
Current NRL biosecurity protocols stipulate players can host up to 10 visitors at home each day, but they can only attend in groups of five.
Adding to Staines’ biosecurity breach was a visit to hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning after he suffered a recurrence of lockjaw, a condition he last suffered during pre-season.
Staines attended the emergency department at Nepean Hospital at 2.30am Sunday morning for treatment before being released some time later.
The Panthers were first informed of the hospital visit on Sunday. The club later learned of the number of visitors that had attended Staines’ home.
The club notified the NRL and Staines was stood down from all duties pending the next steps in accordance with the biosecurity protocols.
“Charlie has been extremely naive on this occasion and inadvertently breached the protocols that are in place to protect the game,” Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher said.
“His misunderstanding of the specifics of the guidelines cannot be overlooked, nor can his failure to contact the club before seeking medical treatment for his jaw condition.
“The club and Charlie will now work closely with the NRL to ensure all necessary steps are taken to rectify the situation.”
It comes after rookie Parramatta prop Stefano Utoikamanu was placed into COVID-19 hold after he celebrated his brief debut by hugging friends and family after the game on Sunday.