The Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) has been kept informed by the Brisbane Broncos following the alleged incident involving David Fifita in Bali.
RLPA Chief Executive Officer, Ian Prendergast, added the following relating to the alleged incident:
“Firstly I would like to commend the Brisbane Broncos on the way they have managed this situation, with their primary focus on securing the safe return of David to Australia,” Mr Prendergast said.
“Based on the information we have been provided, this case reiterates the need for both the media and public not to prejudge these matters until all of the facts are known.
“We look forward to David being given the opportunity to explain his version of events and the NRL Integrity Unit working with the club to investigate the matter.
“The entire ordeal has had a significant impact on both David and those close to him, so we encourage everyone to respect his privacy while he recovers over the coming days.
“As the players’ representative, we are always disappointed when off-field incidents occur – especially considering the work we have done to help address player behaviour this year.
“If a player has fallen short of the standards expected of them, then we continue to support appropriate action being taken to penalise the player.
“However, any such action should be directed at addressing the underlying behaviour involved, so that we can help players learn from these incidents.
“A number of incidents in recent times involving alcohol highlight the need for players to exercise further caution when drinking, particularly while travelling overseas and attending certain nightspots.
“We will discuss with the NRL ways that its Integrity Unit can assist in better informing players about the risks associated with these areas and how the local law enforcement agencies operate.”
