NRL's kick-blocker crackdown changes the game - but the question is do we want that?
NRL kickers are under more pressure than ever. But what will the knock-on effects of the new crack-down be?
Canberra Raiders fullback Jack Wighton was allegedly involved in a serious incident at an ACT nightclub before the start of the 2018 NRL season, according to reports published today.
The Daily Telegraph are reporting ACT police have studied footage of the incident taken from CCTV and are likely to press charges against the Raiders fullback, who made his debut in 2012 and has since played 121 first grade games.
The club released a statement on Tuesday morning and said they would make no further comment on the matter.
“The Canberra Raiders are aware of an incident involving Jack Wighton and have been cooperating with ACT Policing on their investigation,” the statement said.
“The Raiders have notified the NRL Integrity unit and will be not making any further comment as the incident is an ongoing police investigation.”
An NRL spokesperson confirmed they are aware of the incident and that ACT police are investigating, but neither the club or the NRL administration will take any further action before it’s complete.
Wighton has started at fullback in all four of the Raiders’ games so far this year, with the club yet to win a game in 2018.
The Raiders will take on the Canterbury Bulldogs on Thursday night in Round 5, with the team set to be announced at 4pm (AEST) on Tuesday. Given no further action will be taken in the short-term, it appears likely Wighton will be named for Canberra’s next match by coach Ricky Stuart.
NRL kickers are under more pressure than ever. But what will the knock-on effects of the new crack-down be?
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