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Kalyn Ponga kicked out of toilet cubicle, video, Newcastle Knights, investigation, Kurt Mann

Kalyn Ponga kicked out of toilet cubicle, video, Newcastle Knights, investigation, Kurt Mann

Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga looks set to be stripped of the captaincy after a video emerged of him being kicked out of a toilet cubicle with teammate Kurt Mann.

The video came to light on Monday morning, sparking Ponga’s dad, Andre to claim the 24-year-old was “sick in the toilet and his mate went in to help him” while out celebrating “an exciting house purchase.”

Although, Fox League’s James Hooper suggested that wasn’t the real story, telling NRL 360: “You might have to get Pinocchio out again, we aren’t believing that fairytale are we?”

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Newly signed football manager Peter Parr will front the media on Tuesday and News Corp Journalist Phil Rothfield believes it could be the end of Ponga’s reign as captain.

“I think it’s a really, really bad look and I know the Knights are really concerned about the PR side of it and the culture side of it,” he told NRL 360.

“Do you know how serious I think it is, I think he will be stripped of the captaincy over this.”

Ponga was announced as co-captain alongside Jayden Brailey in February, however with the latter missing for a lot of the season Ponga carried the responsibility himself for the first 16 rounds.

Hooper agreed that “it’s a bad scene” and urged the Knights to come down hard on Ponga given prop David Klemmer was stood down for an on-field incident involving a trainer.

“If he’s had concussions, commonsense tells you he should be (on an alcohol ban), certainly Kurt Mann (who is injured) is supposed to be on an alcohol ban,” he said.

Put asked to leave toilet cubicle | 00:16

“They tore strips off David Klemmer for swearing at a trainer on the field, I’d argue that this is far more detrimental in terms of negative headlines for the club and if they’re fair dinkum they’ll read the Riot Act tomorrow morning , Peter Parr will front the media and he will say ‘enough is enough, this is the line in the sand moment, we’re not going to tolerate this sort of jibber anymore.’

“Off the back of that I think both of them are going to have to be issued breach notices and fines. Because if they’re going to breach David Klemmer and fine him for something that was trivial on the field with a trainer, you can’t cop this.”

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However Paul Kent fears stripping the captaincy could have the opposite effect and believes the club should “demand” Put “lifts his standards.”

“I would say to him ‘you’re the only guy at this club that can lead us out of trouble and we’ve paid you the money you deserve, you’re a senior player and an Origin start…’ and I would oblige him to start leading them out of the woods,” he said.

“If you’re going to spend that money on a player you’ve got to get a return out of him. The way to get the best out of Kalyn is not to banish him, not to sack him from the captaincy.

“I’m not excusing it, I would bring him in and give him the Riot Act but I’d say to him ‘you’re the guy mate’ and I would demand that he starts lifting his standards and he takes his teammates with him.

“If he’s got any sense of decency inside of him as a player from a football point of view he will respond to that.”

Lowly Titans embarrass meek Manly | 02:18

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Braith Anasta agreed.

“As much as he’s taken the mickey, this guy holds the key to success… you’ve got to get this blokes in your hip pocket,” he said.

“Kick him in the ass but say ‘this is it mate, this is your last chance.’ They should do some in-house stuff over the next 24 hours, teach him a lesson, scare the you know what out of him and go ‘c’mon mate.’

“If you just sack him as captain you start to lose your key player.”

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NRL Rich 100 2022: Props overtake playmakers as rugby league’s best-paid players

NRL Rich 100 2022: Props overtake playmakers as rugby league's best-paid players

Jesse Bromwich is the highest paid prop in the game with the front-rower leading a clear attitude shift over how much props should be paid.

In a game-changer for the code, the front-row position is now the highest-paid position in the NRL.

The second highest-paid prop is Roosters recruit Matt Lodge on $900,000. A portion of his current salary is being paid by former clubs, the Warriors and Broncos.

From the Rich 100, 26 of the top-earners are front-rowers.

The next best grossing position across the NRL is back rowers (15) and locks (14).

Halfbacks (10) are ranked fourth overall for position in the 2022 Rich 100, a possible insight into the death of quality halves currently in the NRL.

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Bromwich’s $1.05 million salary with the Melbourne Storm will shock league fans, who routinely rate Penrith’s James Fisher-Harris, Eels prop Junior Paulo, Broncos spearhead Payne Haas or Roosters powerhouse Jared Waerea-Hargreaves as the best go-forward merchant in the NRL.

Climbing from a 53rd ranking on the Rich 100 last year to be 13th overall this year, Bromwich has hit pay dirt in his final year in Melbourne on the back of a stellar career at the Storm which has included three premierships and three Player of the Year awards.

The Kiwi International and Storm captain is edging closer to 300 first grade games in what is his final season in Victoria before moving north to become an inaugural franchise player with The Dolphins.

The 33-year-old will take a major pay cut to join the NRL’s newest baby, but could still figure inside the top-50 highest-paid players next year.

The stunning increase in salaries for props is in direct contrast from a long-held view of supercoach Wayne Bennett, who historically refused to spend big-money in his pack.

Lodge has landed at the Roosters for the remainder of this season on a cut-price deal, although his full salary continues to be supplemented by payouts from both the Brisbane Broncos and New Zealand Warriors, the latter of whom have paid him out in full for next season.

Lodge is hoping to earn an extension with the Roosters.

A mainstay of the Rich 100, the next highest-paid prop is Andrew Fifita, who will farewell the list at the end of this season.

The off-contract Sharks prop is in the final year of a five-year contract that is valued at $850,000 a season.

His current overall ranking of 19 on the Rich 100, is shared with fellow front-rower Addin Fonua-Blake.

The Warriors scored a coup when they managed to get Fonua-Blake from Manly for the 2021 season.

He was already one of the game’s premier props when he arrived at the Warriors and he continues to lead from the front for a side that has faced plenty of recent adversity.

Locked in until the end of 2026, Fonua-Blake’s challenge will be delivered upon his worth at the back-end of his contract.

Knights prop David Klemmer is the next highest-paid prop. He is ranked 28th overall on the Rich 100 on a salary of $850,000.

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RIP Paul Green: High school sweetheart’s heartbreaking tribute, NRL news 2022

RIP Paul Green: High school sweetheart's heartbreaking tribute, NRL news 2022

Paul Green’s high school sweetheart has shared a heartbreaking tribute to the former rugby league coach after his tragic death rocked the NRL community this week.

The 49-year-old was found dead at his Brisbane home on Thursday morning, the day after his son’s ninth birthday. It has been confirmed he took his own life from him.

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The Courier Mail reports Green called his friend and longtime manager George Mimis at 4.30pm on Wednesday to speak about his son’s birthday celebrations.

The News Corp publication also reports the footy legend’s wife Amanda found him unresponsive at their home after returning from doing pilates at the gym.

Green’s death comes 11 months after he was sacked as head coach of the Maroons following Queensland’s loss in last year’s State of Origin series, which included a 50-6 win for the Blues.

Speaking on Gold Coast’s 92.5 Triple M Breakfast show, radio announcer Ali Plath fought back tears while grieving the loss of her first love.

“My heart is breaking today for his wife Amanda and his beautiful kids and obviously his parents, and his four siblings,” she said.

“Paul and I went to high school together, he was my first love. You only get one first love.

“We were together when I was in Year 12 for a year and then we split up. I had kids with (former partner) Mark and when that didn’t work out, Paul and I got back together.

“We then did nine years of on-off, long-distance, de facto… I guess we were that couple that I think our family and friends were so much happier than we were when we finally split up.

“Paul was a wonderful stepdad to my two older kids Jesse and Jake when we all lived in Sydney together when I finally had the courage to move them.

“For him to swallow his pride and I guess take my kids under his wing, I really didn’t appreciate how big that was at the time. It’s a big responsibility taking on someone else’s family.

“Paul was extremely loyal, he was highly intelligent — even though I used to tell him I was smarter than him. When I was in Year 12, he was two years older than me, and he was getting up for not doing my schoolwork.

“He just had such a great sense of fun as well as being so capable. If Paul said to you, ‘I’m going to be a pilot’, (you knew) he was going to be a pilot. And he did – he was a commercial pilot.

“My mum let him take me to Hervey Bay in this mosquito airplane when he was doing his training. That’s how capable Paul was. You trusted him, you knew he could do it, I never doubted him.

“He was just one of those people who you knew you could rely on. (As an NRL player), he was one of those players you could count on and he would give his all of him.

“I can’t believe that he’s done this, I can’t believe this has happened.

“That’s not Paul. I’m actually in complete and utter shock. I only spoke to him a couple of months ago.

“It’s horrible.”

Meanwhile, Green’s family is still coming to terms with the footy legend’s passing and revealed plans for a celebration of his life.

Green’s brother Rick told The Sunday Mail the family had come together to plan a public funeral, expected to be held August 23 or 30 at Kougari Oval, the home of the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls, a team Green both played with and coached to premiership glory.

But Rick also revealed the family was struggling to come to terms with the enormous loss.

“Everyone is feeling overwhelmed,” he told The Sunday Mail.

“There’s certainly a lot of stories that we’re sharing about our times with Paul but as we reflect on those good times, there’s a great sadness at his passing.

“It’s still very raw and difficult to process.”

The family had earlier released a statement after the news broke of Green’s death.

“Today we are devastated,” the statement began.

“We have lost a devoted husband, loving father and wonderful brother and son. We cannot find the words that would come close to expressing our feeling, however we would like to extend our thanks to those who have reached out to us with their love and support.

“Paul was loved by so many and we know that this news will generate immense interest, however at this time we ask for privacy.

“Our family is still trying to understand this tragedy and we request space and time as we come to terms with this loss. Thank you.”

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High school sweetheart’s heartbreaking tribute, NRL news 2022

High school sweetheart's heartbreaking tribute, NRL news 2022

Paul Green’s high school sweetheart has shared a heartbreaking tribute to the former rugby league coach after his tragic death rocked the NRL community this week.

The 49-year-old was found dead at his Brisbane home on Thursday morning, the day after his son’s ninth birthday. It has been confirmed he took his own life from him.

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The Courier Mail reports Green called his friend and longtime manager George Mimis at 4.30pm on Wednesday to speak about his son’s birthday celebrations.

The News Corp publication also reports the footy legend’s wife Amanda found him unresponsive at their home after returning from doing pilates at the gym.

Green’s death comes 11 months after he was sacked as head coach of the Maroons following Queensland’s loss in last year’s State of Origin series, which included a 50-6 win for the Blues.

Speaking on Gold Coast’s 92.5 Triple M Breakfast show, radio announcer Ali Plath fought back tears while grieving the loss of her first love.

“My heart is breaking today for his wife Amanda and his beautiful kids and obviously his parents, and his four siblings,” she said.

“Paul and I went to high school together, he was my first love. You only get one first love.

“We were together when I was in Year 12 for a year and then we split up. I had kids with (former partner) Mark and when that didn’t work out, Paul and I got back together.

“We then did nine years of on-off, long-distance, de facto… I guess we were that couple that I think our family and friends were so much happier than we were when we finally split up.

“Paul was a wonderful stepdad to my two older kids Jesse and Jake when we all lived in Sydney together when I finally had the courage to move them.

Gold Coast radio announcer Ali Plath has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her former high school sweetheart Paul Green on air.Source: Supplied

“For him to swallow his pride and I guess take my kids under his wing, I really didn’t appreciate how big that was at the time. It’s a big responsibility taking on someone else’s family.

“Paul was extremely loyal, he was highly intelligent — even though I used to tell him I was smarter than him. When I was in Year 12, he was two years older than me, and he was getting up for not doing my schoolwork.

“He just had such a great sense of fun as well as being so capable. If Paul said to you, ‘I’m going to be a pilot’, (you knew) he was going to be a pilot. And he did – he was a commercial pilot.

“My mum let him take me to Hervey Bay in this mosquito airplane when he was doing his training. That’s how capable Paul was. You trusted him, you knew he could do it, I never doubted him.

“He was just one of those people who you knew you could rely on. (As an NRL player), he was one of those players you could count on and he would give his all of him.

“I can’t believe that he’s done this, I can’t believe this has happened.

“That’s not Paul. I’m actually in complete and utter shock. I only spoke to him a couple of months ago.

“It’s horrible.”

Paul Green is remembered and honored at Suncorp Stadium. Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images

Meanwhile, Green’s family is still coming to terms with the footy legend’s passing and revealed plans for a celebration of his life.

Green’s brother Rick told The Sunday Mail the family had come together to plan a public funeral, expected to be held August 23 or 30 at Kougari Oval, the home of the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls, a team Green both played with and coached to premiership glory.

But Rick also revealed the family was struggling to come to terms with the enormous loss.

“Everyone is feeling overwhelmed,” he told The Sunday Mail.

“There’s certainly a lot of stories that we’re sharing about our times with Paul but as we reflect on those good times, there’s a great sadness at his passing.

“It’s still very raw and difficult to process.”

The family had earlier released a statement after the news broke of Green’s death.

“Today we are devastated,” the statement began.

“We have lost a devoted husband, loving father and wonderful brother and son. We cannot find the words that would come close to expressing our feeling, however we would like to extend our thanks to those who have reached out to us with their love and support.

“Paul was loved by so many and we know that this news will generate immense interest, however at this time we ask for privacy.

“Our family is still trying to understand this tragedy and we request space and time as we come to terms with this loss. Thank you.”

Former Cowboys coach Paul Green. Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty ImagesSource: Supplied

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Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights, result, tries, highlights, SuperCoach scores, videos, Adam Reynolds, Anthony Milford

Brisbane Broncos vs Newcastle Knights, result, tries, highlights, SuperCoach scores, videos, Adam Reynolds, Anthony Milford

The Broncos have beaten the Knights 28-10 on the back of brilliant displays from Te Maire Martin and Ezra Mam and a hat-trick to Selwyn Cobbo.

Martin’s return from injury gave the Broncos an edge in attack and Cobbo cashed in with a brilliant three-try performance as the Knights’ edges were blown apart.

MATCH CENTER: Broncos vs Knights teams, SuperCoach scores, videos, updates

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Cobbo opened the scoring in the corner after some brilliant lead-up work from Adam Reynolds and Martin.

Corey Oates crossed in the opposite corner for his 19th try of the season after a questionable last pass from Delouise Hoeter was cleared.

Mam and Martin combined for one of the long-range tries of the season to push the Broncos out to a commanding 18-0 lead.

Daniel Saifiti barged over from close range to give the Knights a chance at a late comeback.

Bradman Best dived over to cut the deficit to eight points and set up a grandstand finish.

However, Cobbo snuffed out the comeback after securing his double to seal an important win for the Broncos.

Cobbo sealed his hat-trick when Reynolds put the ball on a dime for him to score in the corner and put the icing on the cake.

Here are the key takeaways from the match.

MARTIN PROVES MISSING LINK FOR BRONCOS

Te Maire Martin returned for his first game since Round 16 and showed the Broncos exactly what they have been missing in a masterful display.

Martin is a five-eighth turned fullback and his playing ability adds another dimension to the Broncos attack.

Corey Parker believes Martin’s inclusion ensured the Broncos looked far more cohesive in attack and it took the pressure of his halves and allowed them to play their games.

“They look more in sync with Martin back,” Parker said.

“He has got a real nice slight of hand. Not your traditional fullback in regards to getting lots of run meters, but he had two try assists in the first half.

“He alleviated a lot of pressure off the halves just by his ability to be able to ball play and Cobbo and Mam were the beneficiaries of that.”

Michael Ennis credited Martin with getting the Broncos out of their funk in terms of their attack over their two game losing run.

“What a game from Te Maire Martin,” Ennis said.

“Coming into the side after being out since Round 16, boy he made a difference just with his composure and his control.

“He has ignited the Brisbane attack.”

MAM SHINES AS REYNOLDS STEERS BRONCOS TO VICTORY

The Broncos were not at their best but with the brilliant running game of Ezra Mam providing the perfect foil for Adam Reynolds’ organisation, Brisbane took the game by the scruff of the neck in the key moments.

As long as the Broncos can get their defense in order, with Mam and Reynolds driving the ship and Selwyn Cobbo finishing in the corner, they can create more than enough points to make a deep run in the finals.

Cooper Cronk noted that the Broncos were not at the peak of their powers against the Knights, but Reynolds and Mam were able to ice the try-scoring opportunities.

“The Broncos did it in second gear,” Cronk said.

“They had the tools to break open the game at any stage with the likes of Adam Reynolds with some craft to sell the dummy for the Oates try.

“This was the attempt of the first half from Ezra Mam.

“He scored with five minutes to go and it set the tone for the rest of the game for the Broncos.”

Michael Ennis marveled at Mam’s ability to break the game open out of nothing at such a young age and with a long career ahead of him.

“Mam was electric,” Ennis said.

“19 years of age. Boy isn’t he an excitement machine.

“The Broncos have now jumped the Eels into sixth and have a healthy points differential lead over them.”

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KNIGHTS WOEFUL ATTACK GOES FROM BAD TO WORSE

The Knights had enough ball and field position to win easily against the Broncos, but a combination of their soft defense and inept attack gave them no chance at Suncorp Stadium.

Cooper Cronk lamented the Knights’ inability to create any real try-scoring opportunities despite a mountain of possession in the first half.

“It was a strange first half because statistically the Knights were the better team,” Cronk said.

“They had more ball and more possession but to be honest they didn’t look like scoring a try.

“Their centers Bradman Best and Dane Gagai were under immense pressure.

“They carved up Dane Gagai on the right edge for the Knights.

“The Knights didn’t look like firing a shot.

“When they get down the other end they are just not engaging that Brisbane defensive line at all.”

Corey Parker slammed the Knights’ horror attack, which failed to put the Broncos under any sustained scoreboard pressure.

“25 times the Knights were tackled inside the Broncos 20 without even looking like scoring,” Parker said.

“The only time they were able to mount any sort of pressure was off a couple of repeat sets.

“They were awful with their attack the Knights.

“The Knights are in all sorts at the moment.”

Michael Ennis was at a loss as to why the Knights haven’t been able to be more competitive with the roster they have at their disposal. in 2022.

“You just watch that Newcastle side come out and you see the Saifiti brothers, Dane Gagai and Tyson Frizell who are absolute weapons and great leaders at different stages throughout their careers and I find it hard to fathom that Newcastle are sitting where they are this year with the roster they have,” Ennis said.

MATCH PREVIEW

The Brisbane Broncos host the Newcastle Knights in a clash at Suncorp Stadium.

Te Maire Martin returns at fullback for the Broncos, while Delouise Hoeter replaces Brenko Lee in the centers after his hamstring injury.

Ryan James starts at lockout, with Kobe Hetherington switching to the bench.

The Knights have lost David Klemmer to injury, with Jacob Saifiti to start and Sauaso Sue joining the bench.

Adam Clune returns to the No.7 jumper with Jake Clifford out with a fractured arm.

The seventh place Broncos desperately need to avoid a third straight loss to keep their slim top four hopes alive, while the Knights are playing for pride as they look for their second straight win.

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Paul Green death, age, Cowboys coach death, Jason Taumalolo, how did Paul Green die?, Todd Payten, player reaction

Paul Green death, age, Cowboys coach death, Jason Taumalolo, how did Paul Green die?, Todd Payten, player reaction

Cowboys skipper Jason Taumalolo said there were “no words” to express what he and his teammates were feeling in the wake of Paul Green’s shock death.

The rugby league legend passed away at his Brisbane home on Thursday and tributes have since flooded in for the former North Queensland coach.

Green led the Cowboys to premiership victory in 2015, with Jason Taumalolo starting at lockout, having been coached by the former representative halfback from 2014 to 2020.

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Taumalolo was the only player to take the field on Saturday that was a part of the 2015 grand final team, giving an emotional plea for people to speak out no matter “how big or small the problem is”.

“It has been a big few days given what has happened, no real words really to express what has happened over the last few days,” Taumalolo said in the post-match press conference.

“How it has affected people in the rugby league community, and families, I can’t imagine what Amanda and the kids are going through right now.

“Everyone should have someone to talk to, regardless of how big or small the problem is, no one should have to carry around that pressure with them.

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Fletch lauds Green’s Roosters influence | 03:04

“We have a tight-knit group and I know rugby league teams have their own little groups, I just hope that if anyone is going through something they have someone to talk to about any problems.”

Taumalolo went on to say the loss of their former coach “shocked and rattled” the playing group after the club’s 32-18 loss to the Roosters.

“I think everyone copes with loss and grief differently and yeah, I am not sure about any of the other boys but everyone is affected differently,”

“I’d like to think we are a tight-knit group and we are able to talk to each other whether we are going through a tough time or something really difficult.

“But again, I think just what has happened has really shocked and rattled most of us and it is going to take some time to get over it.”

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Emotional Parker speaks about Green | 03:13

Cowboys coach Todd Payten echoed Taumalolo’s sentiment, revealing NRL powerbrokers have provided the club with necessary resources to deal with the shock loss.

“The club and the league have been great with the resources they have provided us as a group,” Payten said.

“It is my job to make sure that we keep an eye out for each other, that everyone feels comfortable that they can go and see me or someone within the club to get some help.”

During the Cowboys and Roosters clash, both teams wore black armbands to remember Green, who had a lasting impact on both clubs.

Green was assistant to Trent Robinson in 2013, his first year at the helm of the Tricolours club — and in that year they won the premiership.

Green also played 35 games for the Cowboys and 20 for the Roosters during his glittering 162-game playing career.

PAUL GREEN NEWS

‘DOESN’T HURT TO TALK’: V’landys’, Kevvie’s emotional pleas over Green tragedy

OBITUARY: 167cm great who became a giant and the gamble that set him up for glory

‘FUNNY, CARING’: Legends’ emotional tribute to ‘wonderful friend’ Green

‘HAD TOO MUCH TO OFFER’: Bennett reveals Dolphins’ talks with Green in tribute

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NRL Rich 100: Rugby league’s highest paid players revealed

NRL Rich 100: Rugby league's highest paid players revealed

North Queensland, Cronulla and Brisbane have built their premiership revival on a shrewd recruitment drive that has transformed the NRL trio from title pretenders to finals contenders.

Just 12 months ago, the Cowboys, Broncos and Sharks were clubs under pressure to get results after bombing out of finals contention, with the Queensland duo finishing in the bottom three.

But News Corp’s exclusive, annual NRL Rich 100 has laid bare how clever recruitment strategies have catapulted the Sharks, Cowboys and Broncos back into premiership contention.

The five buys of the season — Adam Reynolds and Kurt Capewell (Broncos), Dale Finucane and Nicho Hynes (Cronulla) and Chad Townsend (Cowboys) — have produced stunning results for their respective clubs.

NRL Rich 100: The Origin stars snubbed from list

CHECK OUT PART ONE OF THE NRL RICH 100 BELOW

And the cost has been far from a salary cap-busting experience.

The Broncos outlaid a combined $1.35 million for premiership-winning duo Reynolds and Capewell. The Sharks forked out $1.25m to lure Storm pair Finucane and Hynes to the Sutherland Shire, while North Queensland’s $710,000 investment in Townsend, who steered Cronulla to the 2016 title, has paid handsome dividends.

There were huge question marks on Townsend’s Townsville gamble. Critics of the playmaker believed that, at 31, he was washed up and hurtling toward disaster in the tropics.

But after a one-hour meeting in a Sutherland Shire cafe, Cowboys bosses knew Townsend would be the right fit. Their purchase has been vindicated, with Townsend, buoyed by the Cowboys co-captaincy, turning back the clock to pilot North Queensland into the top two.

At No.44 in the Rich 100, Townsend has delivered bang for his buck.

“Chad has been boots-and-all in since day one,” Cowboys football boss Micheal Luck said.

“The first time we met Chad, we were confident he was the guy we needed.

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“Todd (Payten, coach), myself and Dane Campbell (recruitment chief) met with Chad in a cafe in Caringbah and for me to watch Chad and Todd talk for an hour, it was like two coaches having a yarn about footy.

“We did our homework on Chad with guys who had played with him. The feedback was we needed a composed on-field general who didn’t get too concerned about what was happening around him.

“He has been great for our group. He has been the ultimate pro and a great mentor and teacher for Tom Dearden (five-eighth partner).

“There are a whole heap of ways to put a roster together and we have taken the approach of trying to get as many guys in there that can contribute and contribute now.

“Chad was exactly what we were looking for as a playmaker and leader.”

At the Sharks, hardworking lock Finucane and cool-headed playmaker Hynes have injected a winning DNA.

CHECK OUT PART ONE OF THE NRL RICH 100 BELOW

After finishing ninth last season, Cronulla turned to a new coach in Craig Fitzgibbon and the rookie NRL mentor believed Finucane and Hynes could bring a fusion of steel and tactical smarts to the Sharks.

The formula has worked — at the right price. Finucane is 66th in the Rich 100 at $625,000, while Hynes is ranked No.72 at $600,000, outstanding value given his remarkable transition from Storm supersub to Cronulla’s main man at halfback.

“I had a relationship with Craig Fitzgibbon since playing under him with Country and NSW Origin, so that’s what drew me to the club,” Finucane said.

“I was involved in grand finals and premierships, so it’s no secret that it was hard to leave Melbourne.

“But I’ve enjoyed my time at the Sharks. It’s an opportunity to be part of helping mold what the club wants to be moving forward.”

Reynolds and Capewell have had a similar impact at the Broncos.

After finishing 14th last year, Brisbane were crying out for leadership and a seasoned playmaker to steer the ship.

Capewell’s premiership know-how is worth every cent at $550,000, while Reynolds has repaid Brisbane’s $800,000 outlay by delivering a finals campaign in his debut season at Red Hill.

“The best way to describe our list is well balanced,” Broncos football boss Ben Ikin said.

“’Reyno’ has this great mix of competitive drive and fun in him and Capewell drives our standards, he isn’t afraid to call out blokes if they are cutting corners at training.

“We constructed a plan on how we wanted our roster to look. Throw in guys like Reynolds and Capewell, guys who have been in big games and won premierships, and we have a nice balance.”

Canterbury’s decision in November 2020 to sign Matt Burton, after just six NRL games with Penrith, to a deal worth $550,000 this season, has been a master stroke.

Although the Bulldogs have struggled this season, Burton’s rise at five-eighth has earned him plenty of plaudits. The 22-year-old is able to negotiate with rival teams for 2024 from November 1, when he will be able to command around $800,000 for his next deal.

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Sports

Transfer Whispers, Dylan Brown, contract extensions, transfer news, Parramatta Eels signing, re-signing, off-contract players, Isaiah Papali’i backflip

Transfer Whispers, Dylan Brown, contract extensions, transfer news, Parramatta Eels signing, re-signing, off-contract players, Isaiah Papali'i backflip

Isaiah Papali’i’s management has reportedly confirmed the Eels backrower will honor his Tigers contract, ending speculation surrounding his future.

According to the SMH, Tim Sheens, who will take the coaching reins in 2023, spoke to agent Dan O’Loughlin regarding Papali’i’s doubts.

The merger club were reportedly assured the 23-year-old would land in Leichhardt for the club’s pre-season training alongside star recruit Apisai Koroisau.

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Papali’i previously explained he wants to have “no regrets” regarding his decision.

“Obviously people ask me about it, just even on the street or family and friends are hitting me up but that’s kind of for my manager look after and even if I don’t stay here or I do go next year, I want to make sure that this year has no regrets,” he said to 9 News.

When asked why he had doubts about making the move, Papali’i said it was Maguire’s axing that made him question his decision.

“I think it was the coaching axing that went on,” Papali’i said.

“When I did sign it was talking to Madge — he’s an awesome coach. That rattled the cage a bit and I guess you have to have those conversations and I guess that was a massive factor for me.”

Cheese cuts through on hectic solo run! | 00:45

Papali’i will be a key player for the Tigers, who are hoping to rebuild under Sheens, Marshall and Farrah’s tutelage.

“The only thing I will say is I’m looking forward to coaching him,” Sheens said.

Sheens’ Tigers rebuild is underway, with reports suggesting the club will make a play for former Raiders backrower John Bateman.

The Tigers have also reportedly spoken to Papali’i’s management regarding their vision for the club under the new coaching structure.

MORE NRL NEWS

WAYNE’S WORLD: What Dolphins team looks like and why Bennett isn’t panicking

‘BAD PRACTICE’: Matty Johns says Bunnies can win comp… if they fix big ‘concern’

LATE MAIL: Bunnies star OUT in big blow as training mishap forces Broncos reshuffle

BROWN’S LUCRATIVE CONTRACT TALKS

Parramatta star Dylan Brown’s management has reportedly urged the table a lucrative contract extension to keep the young gun at the Eels as rivals circle.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the 22-year-old’s agent met with Parramatta powerbrokers this week as the five-eighth was reportedly labeled a retention priority.

While Brown’s management is hard at work, the New Zealand international expressed his desire to stay out of any negotiations until after this year’s World Cup.

“My manager would have communicated that (to the Eels) to leave me alone until the season is done,” Brown said.

“I just don’t like it. I’d rather not sort that stuff out (during the season).

“Any distraction is a bad distraction when you are playing footy.”

Brown’s preference to put extensions talks on hold could worry Eels bosses, with rivals being able to make a play for the in-form playmaker come November 1.

Reports suggest Brown’s preference is to stay in Sydney’s west and the Eels mass player exodus has left them in a strong position to offer Brown an upgraded deal.

PAUL GREEN NEWS

‘DOESN’T HURT TO TALK’: V’landys’, Kevvie’s emotional pleas over Green tragedy

OBITUARY: 167cm great who became a giant and the gamble that set him up for glory

‘FUNNY, CARING’: Legends’ emotional tribute to ‘wonderful friend’ Green

Storm sizzle poor Panthers | 02:01

Brown has enjoyed the best season of his four-year career in 2022, recording 14 tries assists with a new-found confidence.

The young gun explained coach Brad Arthur has been instilling that confidence in him, and fans have been treated to a full display of his running game this year.

“The last couple of years … I have always been, not afraid, but I would second guess myself,” Brown said.

“I feel like you have got to go with your gut feeling sometimes and just be confident in what you are doing.

“You’re not getting selected in an NRL team to second guess yourself and not be confident.

“I’m in the team for a reason. Brad is trying to drive that into me. I feel like the more ball I get the better the left edge will go.”

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Fletch lauds Green’s Roosters influence | 03:04

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Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs New Zealand Warriors live scores, updates, stream, start time, teams, Supercoach scores, Tevita Pangai Junior

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs vs New Zealand Warriors live scores, updates, stream, start time, teams, Supercoach scores, Tevita Pangai Junior

The Bulldogs and Warriors have traded blows as the score sits 24-18.

Mick Potter’s side sparked a huge comeback after a horror Walsh error on his own tryline, before backrower Eliesa Katoa again handed his side the lead with a charging try.

MATCH CENTER: New Zealand Warriors vs. Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

57TH MINUTE

Warriors gun Eliesa Katoa has crossed for a crucial try. charging onto a Shaun Johnson short ball to hand his side the lead.

“There is no stopping Katoa, he is a crash ball specialist,” Smith said.

44TH MINUTE

The Bulldogs have scored off the back of a horror Reece Walsh mistake.

Halfback Kyle Flanagan scooped the ball up to cross untouched and bring his side back into the contest.

“An early error from the Warriors, and the Bulldogs exactly what they needed,” Flanagan said.

“We have a game here in Auckland,” Smith said.

Only moments later, Bulldogs flyer Josh Addo-Carr reeled in an intercept to charge away for an 80-meter try.

Multiple Warriors defenders charged across in cover defense but Addo-Carr streaked away to score.

17TH MINUTE

Bulldogs fullback Jake Averillo crossed for his side’s first of the night, running onto an Aaron Schoupp short ball.

Mick Potter’s side charged at the Warriors line, with Matt Burton breaking through before Averillo crossed.

“Matt Burton going so close on the previous play… good heads up play by Averillo,” Smith said.

Only moments later, the Warriors scored off the back of a scrum with Reece Walsh finding Edward Kosi in space.

“He is a class player Reece Walsh, that was beautifully done, he just skips on the outside,” Shane Flanagan said.

“That is all class from Reece Walsh.”

6TH MINUTE

The Warriors have opened the scoring courtesy of a Shaun Johnson short ball to find Viliami Vailea.

The 19-year-old crossed for an untouched try in his return to the New Zealand side after suffering a broken jaw.

The Bulldogs now trail 12-0 on return to Mt Smart Stadium, having played their last game across the Tasman in Round 1, 2019.

MATCH CENTER: New Zealand Warriors vs. Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

“Broken jaw, has been out now for the best part of ten games,” Warren Smith said.

Only moments later, veteran winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak intercepted Matt Burton pass to cross untouched from 90 meters out

“He is a real pro of wing play, a great carrier and he can still scoot,” Smith said.

“He’d have been a great decathlete, he has speed, he has power and great jumping ability.”

PRE-MATCH WRAP

The Bulldogs will make the trip abroad to New Zealand for the first time since Round 1, 2019 for their clash against the Warriors.

Kiwi-born players Jeremy Marshall-King, Jackson Topine, Zach Dokar-Clay and Raymond Faitala-Mariner will make a big homecoming to face their rivals across the Tasman.

Mick Potter’s Canterbury-Bankstown side will be without star enforcer Tevita Pangai Junior for family reasons, shifting Faitala-Mariner to lock.

An hour before kick-off, Potter also made a late change, shifting Harrison Edwards into the starting side in place of Jack Topine.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

MATCH CENTER: New Zealand Warriors vs. Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Meanwhile, the Warriors have made a raft of big changes.

Daejarn Asi returns at five-eighth, shifting regular hooker Wayne Egan back into the dummy-half role.

Young gun Viliami Vailea has also slotted into the centers, while interim head coach Stacey Jones has reintroduced Storm recruit Eliesa Katoa onto the bench.

Tom Ale, 23, will also make his first appearance of the 2022 season off the bench, taking the field for his fourth NRL game.

TEAMS

Warriors: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Viliami Vailea 4. Marcelo Montoya 5. Edward Kosi 6. Daejarn Asi 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Tohu Harris 11. Euan Aitken 12. Jack Murchie 15. Bunty Afoa 13. Josh Curran 14. Freddy Lussick 16. Eliesa Katoa 22. Tom Ale 17. Jackson Frei

Bulldogs: 1. Jake Averillo 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Aaron Schoupp 4. Braidon Burns 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Matt Burton 7. Kyle Flanagan 8. Max King 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Paul Vaughan 11. Josh Jackson 16. Harrison Edwards 13. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 12. Jackson Topine 14. Zach Dokar-Clay 15. Joe Stimson 17. Chris Patolo 20. Kurtis Morrin

PAUL GREEN NEWS

‘DOESN’T HURT TO TALK’: V’landys’, Kevvie’s emotional pleas over Green tragedy

OBITUARY: 167cm great who became a giant and the gamble that set him up for glory

‘FUNNY, CARING’: Legends’ emotional tribute to ‘wonderful friend’ Green

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Paul Green death, updates, reaction, Peter V’landys interview, North Queensland Cowboys, tribute

Paul Green death, updates, reaction, Peter V'landys interview, North Queensland Cowboys, tribute

Broncos coach and Kevin Walters have pleaded for the NRL to increase its mental health support in the wake of the shock death of Paul Green.

The representative halfback and legendary Cowboys coach died at his Brisbane home on Thursday, leaving the entire rugby league community in mourning.

Queensland police issued a statement after Green’s death and confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances.

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‘He’s an elite few’ – Meninga on Green | 03:49

PAUL GREEN NEWS

OBITUARY: 167cm great who became a giant and the gamble that set him up for glory

‘FUNNY, CARING’: Legends’ emotional tribute to ‘wonderful friend’ Green

‘HAD TOO MUCH TO OFFER’: Bennett reveals Dolphins’ talks with Green in tribute

“Police were called to a Wynnum residence just after 10am this morning after a 49-year-old was located unresponsive,” a Queensland police spokeswoman said.

“He was declared deceased by emergency crews a short time later.”

Walters, who were Queensland teammates, reflected on his 30-year relationship with the premiership-winning coach and called on the NRL to do more to support players, coaches and support staff.

“It’s very sad news,” Walters said on Friday morning.

“I was fortunate enough to play Origin football with ‘Greeny’ and had many battles against him during his days at the Sharks and Cowboys.

My feelings go out to his family, friends and everyone involved with Paul. It’s just so sad.

“It’s important we check on each other each day – particularly with the mental health side of things.

“It’s something I believe the NRL needs to put more focus on, particularly around our players, coaches and support staff. Everyone that’s involved in the game.

“We need to make sure there’s someone there for you if you want to reach out.”

Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys earlier delivered a heartfelt plea to the NRL world in the wake of Green’s death.

Some of the 49-year-old former teammates took the opportunity to share anecdotes, which spoke to his character — both on and off the field.

V’landys did similar in paying tribute to Green on 2GB Radiuson Friday morning but also wanted to send a strong message in the wake of the tragedy.

“[It is] extremely sad. We were devastated yesterday when we heard the news,” V’landys said.

“It just shows you how fragile life is and that we should take care of each other. If there’s a message here is if people self-doubt themselves or have problems, it is normal human reaction. Speak about it, talk about it.

Fletch lauds Green’s Roosters influence | 03:04

“We all go through doubting ourselves, we all go through some terrible times but it doesn’t hurt to talk to somebody about it and this is a classic example. If anything comes out of this, which is one of the saddest things I’ve been involved in rugby league, it is that people do reach out if they have troubles.”

V’landys described Green as a “champion” on and off the field, with a “heart bigger than himself”.

“Paul was a very intelligent person, always passionate, witty, happy-go-lucky and he was the last person in the world you would expect to have these troubles,” he said.

“But as I said, we all go through this, we all have self-doubt. Look, I remember Paul as a player, he was a brilliant player and he was a great coach. Who could forget the 2015 premiership that he won and took them again to the semi-finals in 2017.

“He was a champion in his field. He was short in stature but had a heart bigger than himself and was able to go to the elite level of the game. But just as important, he was a great father and a husband, we are just in complete and utter shock.”

‘He just wanted to help people’ – Tallis | 01:35

V’landys urged the rugby league community to get behind the Gotcha4Life charity to honor Green’s memory while also encouraging anyone who is struggling to speak up.

“I think you’d be lying if you didn’t say that at times you feel down and have self-doubt because you do and I do,” he said.

“People think that I’m as strong as a wall but at times you’re human and doubt yourself, you lack self-esteem and confidence. We all go through that. But I talk about it to people.

“I’m not embarrassed to talk about it. When you’re feeling down, you have to let those emotions out. It can happen to anyone. Don’t be proud because you have people who love you and should reach out.

“I think we need to support Gotcha4Life… that will go well for the memory of Paul Green.”

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