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.
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 >
‘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.”
Lions coach Chris Fagan has leapt to the defense of Brisbane star Harris Andrews after the key defender was told to “play like a man”.
Two-time All Australian Andrews has been the target of a stinging attack from Fox Footy pundit and North Melbourne premiership-winner David King.
“He’s playing bruise-free footy at the moment – he’s not playing with physicality,” King said of Andrews on AFL 360 on Wednesday night.
“Forwards are just leading around him too easily; there’s no engagement. There’s no body checking, no blocks – there’s nothing. It’s pure intercept or he gets beaten.
“Your big boys need to play big boy footy and I don’t think he is.
Harris Andrews has to play like a man. You can’t have a guy 200cm play like that. That takes you nowhere.”
Fagan was shocked by King’s attack, particularly after Andrews’ performance in Brisbane’s win over Carlton last weekend.
“Was that on the back of his game against Harry McKay last week when he kept him to one goal?” a puzzled Fagan said on Thursday ahead of the Lions’ trip to Melbourne for Friday night’s clash against St Kilda at Marvel Stadium.
“I would have thought that was a bit of an unusual way to go on Harris. He certainly doesn’t play that way.
“We were really proud of his game last week and hopefully he’ll continue his good form on (St Kilda forward Max) King this week.”
It’s not the first time this season Andrews’ form has been questioned, with Fagan saying the 25-year-old Lion was a victim of his own high standards.
“Because he’s a two-time All Australian, he’s set a really high standard over recent years, and he’s probably had a few games this year where by his own admission he wouldn’t have been that happy,” the Lions coach said.
“People are focusing on that, but generally speaking, that game against Carlton last week, a lot of it swung on the ability of our defenders to not let McKay and (Charlie) Curnow get into the game, and they did that really well, so I’m really proud of them.”
Andrews’ teammate, Darcy Gardiner, who makes his 150th AFL appearance on Friday night, said the criticism of his fellow defender was “unfair”.
“He’s probably been in the spotlight a little bit, but I think he’s been terrific,” Gardiner said.
“I have leads by example every week. He’s someone I highly admire and who I look up to.
“He’s gone to such a high level that teams have put more and more work into him, and that’s just what you want as a player. It means you’re doing the right thing out there and you’re playing good footy.”
Brisbane’s “transformational” Queen Street Mall celebrates a milestone this month, 40 years after it forever changed the city’s retail heart.
What started as a dirt strip hosting horse and carriage traffic in the 1800s had long housed iconic and fashionable brands, but it was not until August 8, 1982 that the two blocks between Edward and George streets were closed to traffic and officially opened by its namesake , Queen Elizabeth II herself.
Queen Street in about 1868 was a far cry from what it is today.(Supplied: State Library of Queensland)
Brisbane City Council’s chair of its 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Committee Krista Adams said the mall’s opening, coinciding with the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games, was an “absolutely historic moment”.
“I have to say, 1982 was nothing short of transformational for our city,” Ms Adams said.
“From Matilda winking at us right through to the closing ceremony… it was the first time that Brisbane considered, ‘Hey, we can do this, and we are on the world stage’.
Whether Brisbanites came for lunch at Jimmy’s on the Mall, met friends after school at Hungry Jack’s or dared to take the dragon ride at the top of the Myer Centre, Queen Street Mall embedded itself in the urban life of Queensland’s capital.
A Christmas postcard featuring a colored view of Queen Street in about 1908.(Supplied: State Library of Queensland)
Ms Adams remembered coffee dates at Jimmy’s on the Mall and watching people from JoJo’s, as well as the terrifying sounds from the rollercoaster at Tops, an amusement venue in the Myer Center.
“There was absolutely nowhere else to meet other than Hungry Jack’s because no-one had mobile phones,” she said.
“It has been reinvented many times over — there has been the Wintergarden, the Myer Centre, Burnett Lane and the extension of the mall down Albert Street.
“It has remained the most popular mall in the southern hemisphere, and the most successful in Australia, and has stood the test of time.”
Ms Adams says while the council has “struggled to get pedestrians back into Queen Street Mall after COVID, it is still home to more than 500 retailers including six major shopping centres.
Designed by late Robin Gibson, the architect also behind the Queensland Art Gallery and later the Queensland Cultural Centre, the Queen Street Mall has hosted parades for athletes returning from the Olympic and Commonwealth Games, live music performances and plenty of fashion parades.
More than two decades ago, Hollindale Mainwaring Architecture took on the redevelopment of the mall, and described Queen Street as “a proven exception continuing its history of vibrant commerciality and increasing pedestrian usage”.
In 2022, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Queen Street Mall attracted “more than one million pedestrian movements a week”.
“As it returns to its post-pandemic prime, with pedestrian movements at 72 per cent of pre-COVID levels, it is set to be bolstered by massive investment into new CBD attractions and transport options,” he said
During COVID lockdowns in 2021, the Queen Street Mall was eerily empty.(ABC News: Chris Gillette)
Queen Street with decorations for the royal visit in 1954, between George and Albert streets.(Supplied: State Library of Queensland)
“With major transformations underway like Queen’s Wharf and Waterfront Place, Queen Street Mall is at the center of an exciting evolution that will drive visitation and renew popularity in the iconic precinct.”
loading
Brisbane fashion stylist, educator and commentator Dianne Cant was involved in the first fashion parades in 1982 in the mall.
“The brief back then was to promote the retailers and impress the shoppers with what was on offer; they weren’t just entertainment but of course, the crowds stopped for 15 to 20 minutes and enjoyed,” she said.
Queen Street flooded in 1893.(Supplied: State Library of Queensland)
“Another personal highlight was being invited to drive Brownlow Medalist Simon Black in a convertible car down the mall when the Brisbane Lions won the AFL Premiership in 2002.”
There will be two weeks of celebrations for Queen Street Mall’s 40th birthday with pop up champagne bars and fashion shows.
Peter Dutton has responded to a photo showing him awkwardly eating a dagwood dog at Brisbane’s Ekka, admitting “there is no good angle”.
The Opposition Leader was spotted tearing into the iconic Aussie snack at Queensland’s annual agricultural show on Wednesday.
He was pictured armed with three dagwood dogs before taking a large mouthful of the tomato sauce-laden battered sausage.
But Mr Dutton revealed the images caused quite a stir once posted online as he was bombarded with text messages from friends.
“Most of my mates actually were pretty rapid-fire texting me like, ‘WTF’,” Mr Dutton told 2Day FM radio.
“But anyway, what do you do?”
Mr Dutton compared the incident to Bill Shorten’s infamous 2016 photo showing the former Labor leader eating a sausage sizzle from the middle.
“With the cameras there, I mean you can’t eat it from the side because the sauce drips off and you do a Bill Shorten… so it leaves one angle and it’s not a great one,” Mr Dutton joked.
“There is no good angle, so you just accept your fate, right?
“But chewing from the side was definitely not an option.”
Mr Dutton is one of many politicians caught awkwardly eating on camera.
In 2019, former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull was ridiculed after he was photographed eating a meat pie with a knife and fork.
His predecessor Tony Abbott left Australians scratching their heads when he was filmed in 2015 biting into a raw onion with its skin on.
Meanwhile, Mr Shorten recently opened up about his unorthodox method of eating a sausage sizzle.
“Listen, I just want to clear up the great scandal of the 2016 election,” he told Today in May.
“The bread roll which I ate from the middle, you would have needed to have the jaws of, you know, a great white to eat it from the end.
The rugby league world is in mourning after the sudden death of Paul Green at 49 years old in his Brisbane home on Thursday morning.
the Daily Telegraph reported that Green had not said anything about feeling ill before his sudden passing, with a postmortem to determine the cause of his death.
Green had been in Sydney last weekend for the Cronulla ex-players’ reunion, one of five teams the former Australian and Queensland representative halfback played for during his career.
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 >
‘HARD TO BELIEVE’: Tributes flow as NRL rocked by death of Paul Green
Remembering Paul Green’s amazing career | 08:32
Green had a decorated playing career which spanned 162 games, suiting up for the Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos.
He then made the switch to coaching after he hung up the boots, taking the Cowboys to their first-ever premiership in 2015 before also taking over the Queensland Maroons Origin side.
In a playing and coaching career of many highlights, Green’s greatest would be his role in taking North Queensland to its maiden premiership in 2015.
Green first took the helm at the Cowboys in 2014 and saw immediate results as the Cowboys won the inaugural NRL Auckland Nines tournament.
MORE NRL NEWS
The side of Green few got to see… and why it made him so special
The masterstroke in Green’s greatest triumph and iconic celebration that will live forever
Green’s final interview at Old Boys Day | 00:28
North Queensland carried the pre-season form into the season proper, finishing in fifth spot on the ladder before being eliminated by the Roosters in dramatic fashion in the semi-finals.
The Cowboys improved to third in the 2015 season and this time around went all the way to the title, taking down the Broncos in a golden-point thriller for the ages.
North Queensland got back to the grand finale under Green’s watch in 2017 too, even without legendary halfback Johnathan Thurston, but were outclassed by Melbourne.
Paul Green in action for Cronulla.Source: News Corp Australia
North Queensland carried the pre-season form into the season proper, finishing in fifth spot on the ladder before being eliminated by the Roosters in dramatic fashion in the semi-finals.
The Cowboys improved to third in the 2015 season and this time around went all the way to the title, taking down the Broncos in a golden-point thriller for the ages.
North Queensland got back to the grand finale under Green’s watch in 2017 too, even without legendary halfback Johnathan Thurston, but were outclassed by Melbourne.
Last year Thurston revealed the first conversation he had with Green that led to the drought-breaking title triumph in 2015.
“He arrived to the club in 2014 and I remember the first meeting we had at the Dally M’s of 2013,” Thurston told WWOS.
“He asked me what was the perception of the Cowboys at that time. I said, ‘We’re pretty inconsistent’. He stopped me pretty much and said ‘You can’t win away from home, and you can’t win when you’re on the sidelines’ so what do I need to do to change that?
Johnathan Thurston and Paul Green after winning the 2015 NRL Grand Final. Pics Adam HeadSource: News Corp Australia
“We needed to get everyone training to an intensity that is required and he did that, and over those years we went on to win a premiership, make four straight finals and another grand final so he’s a great coach.
“I was bought to the club in 2005 to win a premiership. He got everyone to that level and won that first ever premiership for the club which was great scenes for North Queensland and we’ll never forget it.”
Green said he would “always treasure” the premiership-winning year with the Cowboys upon his exit from the club in 2020.
“I am grateful to the board for allowing me to lead this club whilst creating some lifelong memories,” he said at the time.
Iconic: Green goes wild in 2015 GF win | 00:27
‘AN OUTSTANDING CAREER’: NRL WORLD COUNTRIES TRIBUTE TO GREEN
Tributes were quick to flow in from the rugby league world after news broke of Green’s sudden death.
Former Melbourne Storm and Maroons hooker Cameron Smith called it “shocking news” on SEN Radio.
“A very sad part of the day,” Smith said, reacting to the news alongside Denan Kemp, who was coached by Green in the early stages of his rugby league career.
Daly Cherry-Evans and Maroons coach Paul Green celebrate. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“It’s certainly rocked myself and Kempy in the studio and everyone in the rugby league world.
“It’s a sad day for everyone involved in the rugby league family and community. We send our best wishes and condolences out to the entire Green family.”
Kemp spent a bit of time learning from Green in the early stages of his career and paid tribute to his ability to turn around the Queensland Cup team the Wynnum Seagulls after a challenging start to the season.
“I was fortunate enough, he was my kicking and catching coach when I was coming through at the Broncos and he was also my coach when I was at Wynnum,” Kemp said.
“I had a small amount to do with him but in the time I did, it was actually really interesting the year I was at Wynnum I ended up signing with another club to leave but we had a really tough start to the season. Greeny managed to turn the Wynnum Seagulls around and we won the premiership that year.
“He’s a fighter. It’s a very sad day to see Greeny go like that.”
‘It’s numbered the state of Queensland’ | 03:08
Former teammate, Martin Lang, posted on Twitter: “This is so sad. Paul was a close mate, we moved to Sydney together in 1993….the beginning of an outstanding NRL playing/coaching career. My sincere condolences to Paul’s wife, children and his dear mum and dad. Rest In Peace mate.”
Meanwhile, Tigers playmaker Jackson Hastings wrote: “Can’t believe the Paul Green news this morning. Achieved it all as a player and coach still had so much to give, taken way to soon. Thoughts and prayers with family and friends. Makes you realize to take nothing for granted. RIP.”
North Queensland halfback Chad Townsend also paid his respects, writing: “RIP Paul Green. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends of him at this time. ”
The Eels, Sharks and Roosters Broncos also posted tributes to Green on social media while the Cowboys made a statement on the club’s website.
“Paul first came to our club as a player in the late 90s and was the club’s first Origin representative, but his lasting legacy emanated from his seven-season tenure as Head Coach of the North Queensland Cowboys,” chairman Lewis Ramsay said.
“Paul’s arrival as Head Coach transformed our club from finals contenders to an immediate premiership force, culminating in the historic 2015 Grand Final victory.
“We will forever remember Paul as one of the greatest contributors in Cowboys history.”
NRL OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) Chairman Peter V’landys said: “Paul was a brilliant player, and then became one of the few to make a very successful transition into coaching. As a player, he represented Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos, and throughout his career he had a reputation as a halfback who was as tough as he was skilful. Paul was rewarded with the Rothmans Medal in 1995.
“As a coach he led the North Queensland Cowboys to one of the most famous Grand Final victories of all time – against Brisbane Broncos in 2015. He represented Queensland and Australia as a player, and only last year coached the Maroons in the State of Origin series.
“I had the pleasure of sitting on the NRL Competition Committee and found Paul to be a passionate, smart and witty individual. Our condolences go to his family and to his many friends of him. ”
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said: “We are deeply saddened by this loss, and on behalf of the game, I’d like to extend our deepest condolences to Paul’s family, his friends, and those who have been inspired and mentored by him over the course of his long career.”
PAUL GREEN FACT FILE
Playing record:
-Halfback; played 162 first grade games 1994-2004.
* Played 95 games for Cronulla (1994-98)
* 35 for North Queensland (1999-2000)
* 20 for Sydney Roosters (2001-02)
* 7 for Parramatta (2003)
* 5 for Brisbane (2004)
– Played for Cronulla in 1997 Super League grand final
– Represented Queensland in seven State of Origin games 1999-2001.
– Played two Super League Tests for Australia 1997
Coaching appointments:
– Brisbane Broncos Assistant Coach 2009
– Wynnum-Manly Intrust Super Cup 2010-12
-Sydney Roosters Holden Cup 2013
– Sydney Roosters Assistant NRL coach 2013
– Queensland Residents 2012-13
– North Queensland 2014-20
-Queensland 2021
Coaching achievements:
– Won Intrust Super Cup titles with Wynnum-Manly 2011, 2012
– Steered Sydney Roosters Holden Cup team to Finals Series 2013
– Took North Queensland to Finals Series 2014-17
– Won premiership with North Queensland 2015
– Won World Club Championship with North Queensland 2016
An Australian mum has shared her simple two-ingredient cleaning hack that left her oven sparkling without using harsh chemicals.
The Brisbane makeup artist showed how she cleaned her oven using a homemade mix of dishwashing liquid and bicarbonate of soda in a video posted to TikTok.
The mum-to-be mixed the two household ingredients together to make a paste then coated the inside of the oven in the solution and left it to eat away at the grime.
Scroll down for video
An Australian mum-to-be has shared a ‘genius’ hack online for cleaning her oven using a homemade mix of dishwashing liquid and bicarbonate of soda
She then scrubbed the surface with a scourer and wiped the excess paste away with a damp cloth.
‘When you’re on mat leave and all you do is watch cleaning hacks,’ she wrote in the clip’s caption.
The clip quickly racked up more than 146,700 views on the platform and many in the comments were wowed by the ‘genius’ hack.
She mixed the two household ingredients together to make a paste, coated the inside of oven in the solution and left it to eat away at the grime then scrubbed it away
‘Omg why didn’t I see this the other day,’ one user wrote while another said: ‘This is genius, thank you’.
Others shared their own tips and tricks for making the notoriously hard-to-clean appliance look like new.
‘Your oven looks amazing! Next time around, google how to remove your oven door. Makes oven cleaning 1000x easier!’ one person suggested.
‘Dishwashing liquid and vinegar works really well. Far less mess,’ another replied.
Previously a TikTok-famous professional cleaner shared her ‘no chemical’ method for cleaning dirty ovens in a viral video.
Kacie from The Big Clean Co in Melbourne used boiling water, white vinegar, dishwashing liquid, Bunnings scrapers, kitchen scourers and ‘the power of steam’.
Previously TikTok-famous professional cleaner Kacie (pictured) shared her method for cleaning dirty ovens in a viral video
In a TikTok video Kacie from The Big Clean Co in Melbourne used boiling water, white vinegar, dishwashing liquid, scrapers, kitchen scourers and ‘the power of steam’
The cleaning hack ensures no toxic, harsh chemicals are used and will make the appliance look brand new.
‘I’m a professional cleaner and I’ve got a non-toxic way to clean your oven using the power of steam,’ she said in the video.
‘You’ll need dishwashing liquid, vinegar, some scrapers and scourers.’
In the short clip, Kacie explained how steam can help remove the tough food stains and residue at the bottom of the oven.
‘I’m a professional cleaner and I’ve got a non-toxic way to clean your oven using the power of steam,’ she said in the video
‘Now when that charcoal is cold it is rock solid, so here’s what you’re going to do. Add one cup of boiling water and one cup of vinegar to a tray,’ she said.
‘Put it in a hot oven and let it do its thing for about 20 minutes.
‘You’ll be left with this big mushy mess that scraps right off.
She then used the scraper to remove the tough food build-up with ease.
Kacie then poured dishwashing liquid onto the glass oven door and used a scour to remove any remaining grease and ‘make it shine’.
In the short clip, Kacie explained how steam can help remove the tough food stains and residue at the bottom of the oven
‘Don’t forget to let your oven cool a little so you don’t burn yourself,’ she said.
She also used a scour to clean the oven racks over the sink and used the sharp blade for tough food stains.
The cleaning tip left the oven looking sparkling clean as if it had never been used before.
After 24 hours the video was viewed more than 105,000 times, and TikTok users seemed impressed with the transformation.
‘I’ve been trying to find a way to do this naturally, I always worry the chemicals will stay in the oven and affect food,’ one woman wrote.
Another TikTok users recommended using the Scrub Daddy sponge rather than steel wool to clean the oven.
Others dubbed the cleaning tips as ‘awesome’.
How to clean an oven without using chemicals:
What you’ll need:
white vinegar
Toilet
kitchen scours
Dishwashing liquid
Bunnings scrapers
Method:
Add one cup of boiling water and one cup of vinegar to a tray
Place in a hot oven and leave to steam for 20 minutes
Remove the tray and scrape the food stains using the scraper and scour
Clean the oven and dish racks using the dishwashing liquid
The Wests Tigers have been urged to “move on” from new recruit Isaiah Papali’i and use his $1.9 million contract to make a splash in the transfer market.
The Eels enforcer Isaiah had agreed to a three-year deal with the Tigers, but the star recruit is considering a backflip which could leave the club in a tough spot.
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 >
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 >
MORE NRL NEWS
‘THEY HAVE SWAGGER’: Panthers defended amid arrogance claims from Storm
‘HAVE TO BE TAPPED’: Roosters crisis as seven stars command half of salary cap
WHISPERS: Bronco out in cold as rivals deny approach, Eels gun open to code switch
ROSTER OVERHAUL: Tigers target ex-Raiders star Bateman as Sheens gets creative
The 23-year-old revealed his concerns after the Tigers parted ways with premiership winning coach Michael Maguire, and has since been linked with a return to the Warriors.
Papalii inked the big-money deal last November, but told 9 News that his future is still far from certain.
“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,” Papalii said.
“I reckon somewhere in the off-season because this is distracting me at the moment.
“We have a massive opportunity and I don’t want to leave any stone unturned this year and look back on it and think ‘I shouldn’t have left that stuff get in the way’.”
Tom Trbojevic reveals World Cup doubts | 01:12
The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio and NRL360 co-host Paul Kent said the Tigers could not afford to wait until the end of the season for Papali’i to make a decision.
“They have a salary cap to manage, they can’t sit back and wait for this guy,” Kent said.
“That’s why they the Tigers should move on now, move on and use the money before it’s too late,” Riccio added.
“Don’t wait until November. If they do there will be no market for them,” Kent replied.
Should Tigers hear the message and cut ties with Papali’i, it leaves them with two clear options.
Spend the money now and bring in a player to bolster the side for next season or save it up and make a play for one of the big-name stars off-contract from 2023 who can begin negotiating with rivals from November 1.
BEN HUNT
Age: 32
Club: St George Dragons
Position: half-back
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
While the Dragons are reportedly leading the race for Hunt’s signature, the Tigers should do everything they can to ensure he’s wearing their colors in the future.
Hunt, who was leading the Dally M race before the count went behind closed doors, has begun negotiations with the Dragons over a two-year extension.
The Daily Telegraph have revealed that the playmaker’s management had met with the Dragons late last month.
Since then, however, the Dragons have hit turmoil.
James Hooper reported there had been a major blow-up at the Dragons following the treatment of hooker Andrew McCullough and the axing of assistant coaches Peter Gentle and Mat Head for next season.
Hunt is extremely close with McCullough, having played together at both the Dragons and Broncos as well as for Queensland. The development could provide an opening for rivals to make a move.
The Tigers, who would only be able to speak to Hunt since November 1, are in desperate need of a solution at halfback.
Jock Madden has been sporting the No. 7 jersey for the Tigers over the past couple of weeks, but with just 13 games of NRL experience to his name, the club could use a boost.
If Luke Brooks is allowed to leave it would free up plenty of money for the Tigers to make an all-in move.
Hunt is in high demand with a number of clubs interested in services, and he wouldn’t come cheap. But fresh off his Origin heroics, the Tigers should be willing to move mountains if that’s what it takes to lure the star half to the western suburbs.
COREY OATES
Age: 27
Club: brisbane broncos
Position: wings
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
At just 27-years-old, there’s no reason why a club like the Tigers shouldn’t spend big money on a proven try scorer such as Corey Oates.
Oates, who has 188 NRL games to his name, equaled his record for most tries in a season with a double in Round 21 against the Roosters.
Corey Oats. Broncos V Storm. Picture: NRL ImagesSource: Supplied
Oates comes off contract at the end of this season with the Broncos, so he could become an immediate piece of the Tigers’ puzzle for next season.
He would also offer new coach Tim Sheens some versatility having experience playing in the back row.
DAVID KLEMER
Age: 28
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: Prop
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Klemmer was reportedly close to having his contract torn up with the Knights after being issues with a breach notice for an on-field issue.
The former New South Wales prop is on a big-money contract with the Knights, but came under fire after he verbally abused trainer Hayden Knowles during a 14-point loss to the Bulldogs.
“A big overreaction’ Johns on Klemmer | 04:26
Parramatta were reportedly interested in signing the prop for the remainder of the 2022 season on loan before the incident.
While Klemmer has been among the Knights best players, the recent incident, and his hefty contract, could convince Newcastle to agree to release him early.
LIAM MARTIN
Age: 25
Club: Penrith Panthers
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Another player who comes off contract at the end of next season, Martin would be an incredible signing for the Tigers who could approach him from November 1.
Martin has been a key part of the Panthers’ dominance over the last few seasons and has reaped the rewards after cementing his place in the Blues Origin fold.
Liam Martin is among a list of big names who can talk with rivals since November 1.Source: Getty Images
The Panthers still need to lock down fellow Origin stars Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton which could mean Martin is gettable.
He would be a more than handy replacement for Papali’i if the Tigers can convince him to make the switch.
MARTIN TAUPAU
Age: 32
Club: Manly Sea Eagles
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of the year
Sea Eagles enforcer Taupau reportedly requested an immediate release to join the Eels before the August 1 deadline.
It appears as if he wants out of Brookvale, and with his contract expiring at the end of the season, it’ll be interesting to see which colors he dons next season.
The former Kiwi international played for the Tigers for two seasons before moving to Manly for the 2016 season.
With plenty of power to throw around the field, Taupau can be an asset to any team when he’s in-form.
TYSON FRIZEL
Age: 30
Club: Newcastle Knights
Position: second row
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
It wasn’t too long ago that Tyson Frizell was a regular for both the New South Wales Blues and Kangaroos teams.
Frizell made his name with the Dragons before securing a lucrative deal to sign with the Knights, where he’s played the last two seasons.
Tyson FrizellSource: Getty Images
While he still has one more year to run on that contract, Frizell could potentially be lured to the Tigers on a smaller deal than what he’s on now.
What’s more, his name has been mentioned as part of a potential swap deal for Luke Brooks.
While it was denied by Tim Sheens, there is clearly some movement around Frizell.
VICTOR RADLEY
Age: 24
Club: sydney roosters
Position: Lock
Current contract: expires at the end of 2023
Hypothetically speaking, Roosters lock Victor Radley has the potential to be an incredible signing for the Tigers.
The 24-year-old, who has sworn his international allegiance to England ahead of the World Cup, has premiership winning experience and 93 NRL games to his name.
What’s more, Phil Rothfield revealed on NRL360 that the Roosters are facing a cap crunch with seven players commanding more than half their salary cap.
Canadian rock guitarist Gord Lewis was found dead in his home on Sunday after he was allegedly murdered by his own son.
The rocker’s 41-year-old son, Jonathan Lewis, was arrested and charged with a second-degree murder as the Hamilton Police Department in Ontario continues to investigate the case, according to local reports.
The co-founding member of punk rock band Teenage Head was discovered by cops over the weekend. Cops described the incident as “isolated,” the Hamilton Spectator reported.
Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Hamilton Detective Sara Beck said police are not looking for any additional suspects, the New York Post reported.
Beck said the 65-year-old victim sustained “injuries consistent with foul play.”
“We are continuing to seek out witnesses and reviewing video in the area,” she added.
Although “a positive identification has not been made of the deceased due to the level of decomposition,” police said they know the identity of the deceased.
Gord’s death was confirmed by the band on Monday, who shared a touching post on Instagram.
“We are heartbroken and still trying to process the loss of our friend, bandmate and brother Gord Lewis,” the band’s surviving members Steve Marshall, drummer Gene Champagne, and Dave Desroches wrote.
“Our hearts are with his family and all that knew and loved him. Gordon was a force and an inspiration to many. You were taken from us far too soon.”
Lewis co-founded the punk rock band Teenage Head in 1975 alongside founding vocalist and drummer Frankie Venom and singer Dave Desroches, and the band went on to perform all over the country before finding global fame.
Some of Teenage Head’s most known songs include “Let’s Shake” and “Some Kinda Fun.”
The rocker’s death isn’t the first in the group, as Venom died in 2008 after losing his battle to throat cancer.
This article was originally published by the New York Post and was reproduced with permission
The Wallabies will be forced to go to the well again, with Hunter Paisami expected to be ruled out of their second Rugby Championship Test against Michael Cheika’s Los Pumas in San Juan.
It’s understood the center, who laid on the Wallabies’ bonus point win with a sublime run and offload in the final play of the game, has suffered a head knock.
His injury will see yet another backline reshuffle, with Lalakai Foketi expected to be named in the No.12 jersey. Irae Simone, who was a late call-up to the squad and will head to Clermont following the two-Test tour of Argentina, is firming for a remarkable return via the bench.
Foketi won’t be the only change either.
Stream Over 50 Sports Live & On-Demand with Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
The change at inside center could see the Wallabies opt for the experienced head of James O’Connor to fill the No.10 jersey following Quade Cooper’s devastating season ending injury.
Should Dave Rennie indeed turn to O’Connor, the Test shapes as a crunch one for the 32-year-old, who lost some backers following his poor second half against England in Brisbane last month. Never mind that he was under done and playing away from his preferred position and the lack of time in the saddle showed.
Part of the thinking could be that in Bledisloe III, 2020, Rennie was forced to select the uncapped duo of Noah Lolesio and Simone at 10 and 12 and their inexperience showed as the All Blacks smashed the Wallabies at the Olympic Stadium. Rolling out Lolesio, who is still growing as a player at 22, and Foketi, who will play his second Test, could leave them short of experience and leadership in the backline.
Wallabies bag late, late bonus point try | 00:43
Utility Reece Hodge, who stepped into the hot seat at No.10 early in the second half and was assured and kicked his goals, all but confirmed he wouldn’t start when he indicated on Wednesday that either O’Connor or Lolesio would start in the role.
“Rabs (O’Connor) has got his body in really good shape and he’s been training well the last month and really pushing for selection,” Hodge said.
“Whether it’s him or Noah who get the nod heading into this weekend, we’re confident that both of them are in great physical shape and both training really well, so whoever steers us around will have the full confidence of the squad.”
Meanwhile, Allan Alaalatoa’s (personal reasons) return to Australia has opened the door for Pone Fa’amausili to make his debut off the bench.
The Rebels tight-head prop has long been knocking on the door and been a part of the Wallabies’ squad since 2020.
But stuck behind Alaalatoa and Taniela Tupou, who will start against Los Pumas, and plagued by injuries, the giant wrecking-ball, who was compared to the ‘Tongan Thor’ before the series by Rennie, he has been forced to bide his time and get himself into physical shape.
The potential of Fa’amausili is immense, but the weekend’s Test will be his moment of truth.
Elsewhere, Rennie could yet be swayed to return to Rory Arnold – one of Rennie’s international picks – and having been eased back into the squad following a minor injury, he could yet start.
The Test shapes as a significant one for the Wallabies.
Hunter Paisami is expected to be ruled out of their second Rugby Championship Test.Source: Getty Images
If they pull off back to back wins it will leave them in great shape to give The Rugby Championship a real shake.
The rejigged format of the competition, which includes tours for the first time, will see the Wallabies have the luxury of playing three of the next four Tests on home soil, including consecutive matches against the world champion Springboks.
For the first time in years too, the All Blacks are vulnerable and down on confidence having lost three straight Tests. A fourth consecutive loss to the Springboks could force a coaching change, with Ian Foster on the chopping block.
Cheika’s Pumas will be out for revenge, however, noting their second half disaster, where they were penalized out of the game and smashed at the rolling maul, killed them.
With an inexperienced, lighter front-row to come off the bench for the Wallabies though, the Pumas have the chance to go after their opposition.
Justin Hodges has lit a fuse ahead of his fight against Paul Gallen, declaring he’d knock the Blues legend out “easy” and provided a brutal reminder of who won more Origin series.
Gallen will fight Queensland legends Hodges and Ben Hannan on the same night in what promises to be an epic boxing extravanganza at the Nissan Arena in Brisbane on September 15.
Watch Boxing Live & On-Demand on Kayo. Selected international fights, classic bouts and more. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
And just as there was bad blood as footy players in the feisty Origin clashes, it seems that no love has been lost since all three talked the talk at the press conference.
Gal made a wild bet that if Hodges put $10,000 on the line and knocked the Sharks great out, Hodges would receive $50,000.
“Put your money where your mouth is, put your balls on the line,” Gallen said.
“Have $10,000 on it. I’ll give you five-to-one.
“You’re not man enough… Shake my hand on $10,000. Shake my hand on the $10,000 bet.”
Hodges hit back with a cutting reply.
“I beat you in every series at Origin,” Hodges said.
Gal & Hodges trade insults over 50k bet | 01:28
MORE COVERAGE
‘That’s an outrage’: Aussie boxer left stunned after bout controversially waved off
‘Floyd Mayweather before there was Floyd’: Calls for State Funeral for icon who ‘changed Australia’
‘He isn’t the biggest draw’: Famous boxing promoter’s bold Tyson Fury call
“I’ll knock you out easy.”
The Broncos legend was also blunt as to how the fight would end.
“I’m going to knock him out,” Hodges said.
“That’s what I’m training for.
“I’ve been working my guts off the last couple of fights preparing myself to what I need to go to.
“I know at some stage he likes to walk forward and that’s going to suit me to a tee, I’m going to catch him.
“I’ll see you in a couple of weeks.”
Ben Hannant was the first man to fan the flames when the former NRL star described Gal as someone who’s more “like a Queenslander” than the proud New South Welshman that he is.
“The most hated New South Welshman in history would have to be Paul Gallen,” Hannant said.
“The reason why is because what he brings. He’s actually like a Queenslander, to be honest.”
Gallen smoked: “Please don’t disrespect me like that. Come on.”
Hannant explained his claim further.
“He puts in effort, he keeps showing up, he never gives up,” Hannant said.
“Against everyone that he goes up against, he thinks he can beat.”
Justin Hodges and Ben Hannant will both fight Paul Gallen on the same night. Picture: Scott’s Shotz.Source: Supplied
