NRL

Sam Burgess in hot water for “offensive” kangaroo court comments

by
Ben Carney
September 18, 2019

Sam Burgess could face yet another ban after describing the NRL judiciary as a “kangaroo court” on Tuesday.

In an explosive interview, South Sydney captain Burgess, who missed week one of the finals for a hair pull, said it was “crazy” that Jared Waerea-Hargreaves had been suspended for a trip.

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“Who is making calls here? Is there a discussion before these calls go out there? I don’t know,” Sam told the Australian Daily Telegraph.

He added: “What’s the process? It’s like a kangaroo court in there.

“Just fine the player. Was it bad? Did anyone get injured? Is anyone hurt? No, no. Is it silly? Is it part of the game? Is it in the contest? Yeah.

“All right then, let’s fine the player. Players will pay whatever, give it to charity, pour it into grassroots.

“Do something. Better than maybe senior players miss big games, that’s what we play nine months for.”

But the comments made by the England star could land him in more trouble with NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg releasing a statement today.

“On face value, Sam’s comments about the judiciary breach our code of conduct and are offensive to both the chairman (Supreme Court judge Geoff Bellew) and members of the panel who carry out their duties impartially, without fear or favour,” Greenberg said.

“We take a pragmatic view about most of the debate that occurs around the game.

“However, the NRL Judiciary is a longstanding and independent process based on the principles of natural justice in our court system.

“Our chair (Bellew) is an esteemed judge of the highest calibre and our panel members are former high-profile players who are independent from clubs.

“The integrity of the system and the people in it should never be questioned.”

It’s reported that Burgess will now have to meet with the NRL hierarchy and show cause as to why he should not be reprimanded for the outburst.