Cartwright faces ban for anti-vax stance

THE ARL Commission is considering banning Bryce Cartwright from playing in the NRL this season if the Gold Coast Titans back-rower won’t agree to a flu injection.

The Bulletin can reveal the ARLC is investigating the possibility of sidelining NRL players who reject the flu vaccine under the code’s returnto-play proposal for May 28.

It is understood Cartwright (pictured), an anti-vaxxer, has indicated he will refuse to receive the flu vaccination.

Titans hooker Nathan Peats defended Cartwright, claiming on social media that “several players” have also rewhether fused the vaccine. But the ARLC are taking no risks and want all 480 full-time NRL players administered the flu shot in accordance with a detailed biosecurity plan.

ARLC chairman Peter V’landys and commissioners were due to meet to discuss a number of matters, including to stand down players, such as Cartwright, until they agree to receive the flu vaccine.

Titans head of performance and culture Mal Meninga said the club was awaiting further information about Cartwright’s availability.

“I’m not quite sure what will happen there, it will be a medical decision,” he said. “I asked the question yesterday but everyone is unsure at the moment.

“It’s going to be interesting to see how that’s handled. We’re all waiting on the chief medical officer’s opinion.”

The NRL is pushing for all players to receive a flu jab given the effects of COVID-19 are exacerbated if someone is also suffering from influenza.

The NRL is considering allowing players to play without the injection on the proviso they sign a waiver.

When asked if he would be disappointed to lose Cartwright, Meninga said rules were in place for a reason.

“To me, regulations are regulations,” he said.

“We’re in the bubble under really strict biosecurity measures. From our point of view, that decision will be taken out of our hands. There’s not a lot we can do.”