NRL fines Panthers, Cowboys $10,000, bans trainers Shane Elford, Mitchell Dunn for two matches
The trainers involved in the NRL “Watergate” scandal have been suspended for two games and Penrith and North Queensland have both been fined $10,000.
Panthers trainer Shane Elford and Cowboys trainer Mitchell Dunn were both caught on camera watering the ball before handing it to a player for a kick-off restart during the sides’ 30-30 draw on Saturday.
The trainers will both miss one match with the ban for a second game being suspended.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“During the match, trainers from both clubs were observed squirting liquid onto the football prior to kick restarts of play, in contravention of the NRL Rules,” the NRL said in a statement.
“The NRL has also reminded all clubs about the limitations of the roles of trainers on match days. Any action, other than those permitted under the NRL rules, may be considered a breach liable to sanctions.
“Both clubs will have five days to respond to the breach notices.”
Elford played in the Wests Tigers’ 2005 premiership-winning team, which beat the Cowboys.
He also played 89 games for Penrith from 1997 to 2003 and 2009 to 2010, but did not play in their 2003 title-winning team.
Dunn played for the Cowboys from 2018 to 2023.
Originally published on The Nightly
