Chris Sandow’s path back to the NRL has narrowed after his alleged involvement in a street brawl in a regional Queensland town.
The former Parramatta and South Sydney halfback was hopeful of an NRL return in 2017, with at least three clubs believed to be considering his recruitment.
But the NRL has indicated registering his playing contract would be dependent on behavioural standards – something that may prove difficult after he was charged with public nuisance.
“He’s not part of the NRL, so we have no reason to look into it (the alleged brawl),” an NRL spokesman told News Corp Australia.
“But any player seeking to be registered needs to prove they are fit and proper to be part of the NRL.
“Having said that, there is no application to register him.”
Sandow, 27, is due to appear in the Murgon Magistrates Court on January 10 after the fight in the South Burnett region community of Cherbourg was videoed.
Queensland police did not officially name the 27-year-old but said the charge came as a result of an alleged “ongoing disturbance” at the town on the weekend.
Footage of the incident appears to show Sandow throwing punches in the alleged incident as a crowd watches on.
He had returned to Australia last year after quitting his English Super League club Warrington due to homesickness, with Wolves chief executive Tony Smith labelling him “a pain” following his departure.
Sandow last month fought fellow former NRL player Todd Carney in a charity boxing match which finished in a majority draw.
He has expressed a desire to return to the NRL, but said ahead of the fight in December making a career in boxing was “another option” should his rugby league career revival fail.
kk
Roar Pro
Good point Cathar. P & G laid down on the job in some weird excuse for pugilistic combat. At least the choreography of Chris and mate was more genuine, if brawls deserve classification. SOTW fines followed, 1 pending.
Cathar Treize
Roar Guru
You wouldn't find rich folk, say in Bondi, fighting on the streets and not having the hand of justice come down so why should Sandow be any different? Oh wait....
Cathar Treize
Roar Guru
Wonder what made Packer & Gyngal's street brawl any different hey?
Norad
Guest
All those people in a public brawl and the only one who gets a fine is the ex league player? Is that what happened or has the report left some of the full story out?
The Barry
Roar Guru
Storm in a teacup. Fringe player gets threatened with non registration.
terrence
Guest
Most likely...
Statler and Waldorf
Roar Guru
"fortunately no one hurt badly" Because both were too useless (or too drunk) to land a punch
terrence
Guest
correct. both knew they'd had their time chucking a few, fortunately no one hurt badly, bloke feel, sandow, helped him up. very smart by both participants (and onlookers).
At work
Roar Rookie
If you watch the full video, it was a classy move that after he knocked the other guy to the ground with a good blow, he stopped and helped him up. None of this UFC hero stuff which too many 'tough guys' emulate these days.
Stu
Guest
I thought it was really sad. Chrissy obviously has a lot of issues he needs help with - pathetic response from the NRL. He is not a registered player therefore they won't get involved. I hope the men of league can get in touch and help him. I remember when he was touted as the next Alfie.
terrence
Guest
Tell you what, seeing that fire in his ample belly on that video and against the human self-toilet a few weeks ago, if I was a NRL CEO of a team which lacked a bit of firepower upfront (i.e. STGI Dragons, Newcastle Knights, Brisbane Broncos, Wests Tigers or NZ Warriors), I'd seriously consider him as an 8, 10 or 13. Worse comes to worse a half-decent back-up 6, 7 or 9. Good to see his local community doing their best to keep him fit till he finds a new NRL club.
Gray-Hand
Guest
A minor public figure brawling in the street might not be worthy of the front page of the broadsheets, but it's definitely newsworthy. And i'm not sure why there would be any criticism of a member of the public filming a public brawl, or for a news outlet for buying it. It's a record of an illegal act in a public place. It's not like anyone had their privacy violated.
Albo
Guest
"... making a career in boxing was “another option” should his rugby league career revival fail." Dear oh Dear !! Now I have heard everything ! If his "fight" against Carney and that video of his "North QLD stoush" is an indication of another "career option" , then I might lace up my 1969 boots again and call Sam Ayoub !
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
It wasn't me. Shaggy's defence is always a solid one.
no one in particular
Roar Guru
Alleged?
kk
Roar Pro
Was Mr X paid for the video? If this is news let's have some local opinion. Noted that it seemed to be arranged, was 1 on 1 and no one appeared to be hurt, though the head butt may harm his defence. I do not condone brawling, but if this issue was A v B we would never hear about it. Chris had delivered many exciting moments on the RL paddock but his behaviour indicates he may need a concussion test and it may hinder his return to the NRL. I understand Cherbourg is a pretty tough town and he may have to contend with some unwelcoming antagonists.
Mike Dugg
Guest
Jeez. This guy will never learn.