Brisbane coach Kevin Walters says the continuing stand-off between the NRL hierarchy and the players’ union is “a distraction” and wants a resolution between the parties pronto.
The NRL and NRLW logo was covered over with tape by players in a double-header on Thursday night at the Gabba in protest at the failure of the NRL to progress negotiations with the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) over a fresh collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
The NRLW clash at the Gabba between the Titans and Broncos kicked off on Thursday night with players from both sides wearing tape over the NRLW logo on the front of their jerseys.
The male players from the Roosters and Broncos followed suit with the NRL logo not visible.
The NRLW remain without a CBA and NRL players are operating under the previous agreement which lapsed last November They must sign off on a new deal by October.
The players aren’t available on match days to speak to media due to blackout that has been in place since round 19, so it was left to the coaches to answer questions about the tape over logos.
Walters, speaking after his side’s 32-10 win over the Roosters, said his wish was that there could be a resolution to the stand-off between the RLPA and the NRL.
“Like most rugby league people I’d like to see the two parties get together and see something sorted because it is a bit of a distraction for our boys,” Walters said.
“This is the best part of the year for rugby league over the next five weeks and into finals. We need rugby league as the centrepiece, not controversy off the field.”
Walters said he did not envisage a player strike being called but added he was not involved in discussions.
“I am trying to support our players and trying to support our game," he said.
Walters said he was pleased club veterans Kurt Capewell and Adam Reynolds were club delegates of the RLPA’s player advisory group.
“They are very experienced and I am sure they can handle what is happening off-field. So long as they can relay the information back to the players I will keep coaching them, which is what I get paid to do.”
Roosters coach Trent Robinson is one of the most respected voices in the game but said he wouldn’t be taking sides.
“It is a really difficult thing and you can see benefits from both sides," he said.
“You need to have that balance of someone looking after the players and you need to have a governing body that leads the way.
“We are in the middle of a power struggle and I don’t think it is up to clubs or coaches to get in the way.”
Robinson said the people that follow the game “love the game”.
“So both (sides) need to understand that the game is why we are here and what we love it for - and the product - so just don’t affect that - however they get the result. Protect the game.
“We are in such a good spot because of both of those parties, but don’t let it go too far.”
