Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020
The Perth Bears and coach Mal Meninga have become the first figures punished under the NRL's new anti-tampering regulations after comments regarding Canterbury Bulldogs stars Matt Burton and Jacob Preston. The sanctions were confirmed on Friday, with both Meninga and the Bears receiving $20,000 fines. Meninga's penalty has been suspended, but the case highlights the league's tougher stance on player recruitment discussions ahead of the Bears' entry into the competition.
NRL Acts on Recruitment Comments
The breach stems from comments Meninga made earlier this year while discussing potential marquee signings for the Bears' inaugural squad.
"There has also been a heap of noise around Matt Burton. Jacob Preston, he’s someone coming off contract after 2027, we’ll be in the picture. We will have enough money in our cap to maybe chase a Nathan (Cleary) or a Jake if they come onto the open market," Meninga said.
"We are waiting in the wings and would love to be in the picture with an elite player, whoever that could be. No one is available right now but we have plans for the future, yes.
"I also have full faith that our 2027 roster will be competitive. We might develop one of our own players into a marquee player next season."
Why the NRL Took Action
Burton and Preston remain contracted players and are unable to negotiate with rival clubs until November 1, making public recruitment comments a breach of league rules. Meninga has been given five days to respond to the breach notice.
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