The National Rugby League has today sought an immediate explanation from the Newcastle Knights in relation to an announcement that Danny Buderus would assume a coaching role with another code while continuing to play for the Knights.
“Neither Danny Buderus nor the Knights have sought permission from the NRL to enter into a third party agreement as his playing contract requires and as the club is required under the Salary Cap Rules,” NRL Interim Chief Executive Mr Shane Mattiske said today.
“It is hard to envisage any circumstance where an agreement could be approved that allowed a current NRL player to promote another code competing in the same market as an NRL team.
“The announcement today which saw Danny at a press conference in another code’s training gear underlines potential issues.
“We will be seeking an immediate response from the Knights and as much as we respect Danny’s intentions we do not see any way in which the proposal can be pursued.
“In conjunction with the RLPA we provide a range of specialist services to assist players in maximising off-field careers and these are all available to Danny and all players.”