Simona handed effective life ban

SYDNEY: Tim Simona has all but been banned for life, after the NRL deregistered the Wests Tigers’ centre for placing bets on matches, including against his team winning and rival players to score.

Almost a month after standing him down from clubrelated activities, the governing body yesterday confirmed Simona had also kept proceeds from auctioned jerseys which were intended for charity.

The 26yearold was also accused of lying to the integrity unit at two interviews this week at league central.

‘‘This is an extremely sad situation. Tim Simona has a serious personal problem and he has expressed some remorse,’’ NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said.

‘‘He’s worked very hard to become an elite athlete and an elite rugby league player. He has now thrown that away.

‘‘The game will continue to care for him. He will be provided with the welfare and assistance that he needs in this very difficult time.

‘‘But based on the evidence we’ve identified, it is very hard to imagine that Tim Simona will be registered with the NRL at any time in the future.’’

Greenberg refused to divulge specific details on the extent of bets Simona had made, except to say they were only modest wagers made over two years. He also insisted none of the bets came off and that a third party was involved.

The Tigers released a statement yesterday, standing by the NRL’s decision.

Players’ union boss Ian Prendergast demanded Simona be afforded the opportunity to be given another lifeline, but only on the condition that he addressed his personal issues.