NRL hit by new betting claims
POLICE have uncovered what they believe could be a raft of spot fixing, money laundering and illegal third party payments during their investigation into alleged NRL match fixing.
One of the cash payments being investigated is as much as $300,000 and involves an NRL player.
The Gold Coast Bulletin understands police are now focused on NRL players betting on themselves in exotic markets.
Police suspect Manly may have breached salary cap rules involving at least one player, a development that has sparked another major investigation by the NRL’s integrity unit.
However, police are set to clear anyone of being involved in organised match fixing from the original Strike Force Nuralda investigation involving three Manly Sea Eagles matches in the 2015-16 seasons.
Their opponents were Parramatta twice and South Sydney.
A senior source close to the investigation said there are now suggestions of betting irregularities in multiple matches involving a number of NRL teams in previous seasons.
Allegations of tax evasion and other potential criminal activities have also been raised.
Some players are alleged to have passed on inside information regarding team selection and injuries to punters.
It is understood some NRL players are cooperating with police, while others are reluctant to discuss the allegations.
The NRL has taken a tough stance against spot fixing involving former Wests Tigers centre Tim Simona, who was banned indefinitely earlier this year.
Police have also questioned the NRL regarding the code’s use of third party payments, with suggestions illegal payments may have been made outside the salary cap to players.
The salary cap investigation extends to other clubs.
Parramatta lost 12 points as part of a massive salary cap scandal last season.
It is understood several whistleblowers have provided evidence to the NRL’s integrity unit about front office issues at Manly.
The Sea Eagles said in a statement last night they had not broken any rules.
“There are in fact no allegations that the club has been the subject of in relation to any components of the NRL salary cap or lower tier cap compliance,” the statement read.
“Quite the contrary we recently had our 2017 midyear salary cap audit completed by the NRL in record time and without adjustment.
“The club remains the benchmark in relation to both salary cap and playing roster management at all levels across the NRL, something we remain immensely proud of.”
Strike Force Nuralda’s investigation was set to be finalised before this season started but was extended when new information about possible criminal behaviour was given to investigators.
The NRL said it was in regular discussions with police on matters relating to the game.
The NRL said it did not currently have any evidence of violations which would warrant disciplinary action.