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Sam Burgess in hot water after blasting ‘kangaroo’ judiciary

He will meet with Todd Greenberg to explain his actions.

Published by
Ben Cotton

South Sydney skipper Sam Burgess has whacked the NRL judiciary, labelling it a "kangaroo court".

Burgess missed his side's loss to the Roosters last week after receiving a one-match ban for pulling Billy Smith's hair in their round 25 clash, but will return for Friday night's meeting with Manly.

The Englishman questioned the current process of the judiciary system.

"Everyone seems to be in uproar about this judiciary system," Burgess told The Sydney Morning Herald.

"Who is making calls here? Is there a discussion before these calls go out there? I don’t know.

"What’s the process? It’s like a kangaroo court in there.

"Regardless of what I think, [the NRL] have got to make the call. It’s everyone’s game, the fan’s game. Everyone is missing out."

Burgess criticised the potential suspension of Roosters forward Jared Waerea-Hargreaves for an alleged trip.

"I’m probably feeling what you’re feeling," Burgess said about frustrations over the judiciary and match review committee.

"Does everyone else not feel some of this stuff - everyone is trial by media, everything is social media, we’re just very reactive. We’re a multi-million dollar game and we’re ruling out players for big games.

"Just fine the player. Was it bad? Did anyone get injured? Is anyone hurt? No, no. Is it silly? Is it part of the game? Is it in the contest? Yeah.

"Alright then, let’s fine the player. Players will pay whatever, give it to charity, pour it into grassroots. Do something. Better than maybe senior players miss big games, that’s what we play nine months for.

"I guess the people who lead the game should speak to some of the senior players in the game about it. Instead of talking through the media about it, let’s talk like men. Let’s get together in a room."

He added: "We’re in a finals series but we’re not talking about the game. Do you know what I mean?"

"So what are we doing? Are we selling the game? Are we killing the game? What do you want to do?

"I want to sell the game, but yet we’re talking about all controversy and negative calls. Alright, whatever. Does that sell tickets?"

Burgess comments have come under scrutiny from the NRL, who have asked for a please explain.

All players are bound by the NRL Code of Conduct which does not permit them to make adverse comments about the judiciary.

Burgess will meet with NRL boss Todd Greenberg to explain his comments and why she shouldn't be handed a breach notice.

“On face value, Sam’s comments about the judiciary breach our Code of Conduct and are offensive to both the Chairman and members of the panel who carry out their duties impartially, without fear or favour,’’ Greenberg told NRL.com.

“We take a pragmatic view about most of the debate that occurs around the game. However, the NRL Judiciary is a longstanding and independent process based on the principles of natural justice in our court system.

“Our Chair is an esteemed Judge of the highest calibre and our panel members are former high-profile players who are independent from clubs. The integrity of the system and the people in it should never be questioned.”

The Rugby League Players Association have been invited to the meeting and a decision about whether Burgess is issued a breach notice will be decided afterwards.

Published by
Ben Cotton