The NRL has indicated that the policy governing player code of conduct is set for review via a media release on Friday morning.
“The Australian Rugby League Commission’s (ARLC) policy on player behaviour will be reviewed when the Commission meets on 28 February,” ARLC Chairman Peter Beattie said.
“At that time, we will consider the position put forward by Melbourne Storm Chairman, Bart Campbell and other leaders of the game. It will also be on the agenda when Club and State Chairs and CEOs meet on 28 February.
“The ARLC sets policy. The NRL implements it.
“The ARLC is strongly opposed to anyone in Rugby League being involved in violence of any kind, especially domestic violence and any behaviour which brings the game into disrepute.
“The ARLC has instructed the NRL to take the strongest possible action against any player engaged in such behaviour – from serious fines to suspensions and deregistration.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a tumultuous fortnight for the NRL.
NRL boss Todd Greenberg confirmed the deregistration of Ben Barba last week, following CCTV footage allegedly showed the Cowboys fullback assaulting his partner.
Meanwhile, shocking new details emerged about St George Illawarra’s Jack de Belin rape case, as he pled not guilty in a Wollongong court on Tuesday.
All this while the sex tape saga involving Canterbury-Bankstown’s Dylan Napa remains unresolved, with the NRL facing increasing pressure to stand the Bulldogs player down.
The review will hope to minimise the impact the scandals will have on NRL sponsorship.