Club hit with sensational five-figure fine for COVID breach

Canterbury Bulldogs have been fined a hefty $50,000 for their failure to properly inform their squad of new COVID-19 restrictions before five players visited a Bondi pub.

The five players have also received $10,000 in fines between them, with Dylan Napa slapped with a $5000 alone, Fox Sports has reported.

The group visited the Royal Hotel three days after the NRL ordered players and officials not to attend restaurants, pubs or bars in east Sydney at the start of the outbreak.

The NRL claims after the restrictions were brought into place on June 17, the club failed to effectively communicate the message to players the following day.

“Our biosecurity protocols are the most important part of the competition, they are our licence to continue playing during the pandemic,” NRL chief Andrew Abdo said.

“In this instance we believe the Bulldogs failed to ensure the upgraded protocols were clearly explained to their players.

“This sanction sends a clear message to every club that you must do everything possible to ensure players understand the protocols.

“The players also have an obligation to seek further information if they are unsure of the upgraded biosecurity advice.”