Payne Haas can expect an even bigger fine if he finds trouble off the field again.Credit:Getty
“The ARLC at the time introduced the no-fault rule acting in the long-term best interests of rugby league to build both our fan base and the financial security of the game and its players. I stand by that decision,” Beattie said. “It is now time to move on.
“The competition for fans and the sporting dollar intensifies every year. The ARLC has to be nimble and under[ALRC chair] Peter V’landys and[NRL CEO] Andrew Abdo we have the team to do just that. As a humble commissioner they will have my full and ongoing support.
“Part of the future is a close working relationship with the RLPA. Clint Newton is the right CEO to partner with the ARLC/NRL to grow the game.”
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The focus at Rugby League Central will turn to harsher deterrents to curb off-field incidents after a string of negative headlines during the off season. To that end,the current maximum fine of $50,000 is expected to increase by at least double,with the issue set to be an agenda topic at next week’s scheduled ARLC meeting.
“We want to send a message that it’s a privilege to play in the NRL,” V’landys said. “When you play in the NRL you are a role model and need to act accordingly.
“I want to stress that 99 per cent of footballers do the right thing. I don’t want every player tarnished. We’re not doing this for the 99 per cent,we’re doing this for the one per cent that let the 99 per cent down.