The NRL has been asked to explain the reasoning behind the diamond ring they gifted to Cameron Smith's wife Barb in celebration of his 400th game.
The gift wasn't approved by the Australian Rugby League Commission according to the Daily Telegraph, and wasn't officially listed among the gifts the NRL would give to Smith.
Smith received a Waterford crystal football after his 400th game, and also received a mural in Richmond, down the road from AAMI Park.
The NRL reportedly handed Barb the ring worth around $15,000 at a private dinner in the lead up to Smith's 400th, although it wasn't mentioned until CEO Todd Greenberg had to defend the ring in a press conference on Thursday.
“Our biggest stars wouldn’t be where they are today without the women in their lives,’’ Greenberg said.
“We make no apologies for honouring the amazing role Barb has played and the sacrifices she has made throughout Cameron’s career.
“His feat made history and may never be done again. It was right to acknowledge the achievement in the way we did.”
An NRL spokesperson said the gift had no salary cap implications attached to it.
“It is a gift from the NRL,” the spokesman said.
“No different to gifts for 300 games, premiership rings or players who are paid out of the NRL marketing fund to promote events.”