RLPA threaten to delay kickoff in NRL games as CBA standoff intensifies, with leading coach urging the warring parties ‘don’t let it go too far’

The Rugby League Players Association have threatened to delay kick-offs in future NRL and NRLW fixtures as their standoff with the game’s governing body intensifies.

It is the latest protest move led by RLPA CEO Clint Newton, who has repeatedly stressed he is acting in the best interests of the players, both men and women.

Delaying kick-offs will leave footy fans up in arms, and also interrupt the broadcast of live matches on Foxtel and Channel Nine.

In childish scenes across three NRL games in round 22 so far, players have taken to the field with the NRL logo taped over on their jerseys.

Telstra, the NRL’s major sponsor for more than 20 years, are said to be seething at the protest, as it has also become clear the players have breached their own hefty contracts by covering the logos.

The Rugby League Players Association have threatened to delay kick-offs in future NRL fixtures as their standoff with the game’s governing body intensifies (pictured, RLPA CEO Clint Newton)

Melbourne winger Xavier Coates sporting a jersey with the NRL logo taped over on Friday

As revealed by the Daily Telegraph, section 3.1(k) of all playing contracts stipulates players must act in the best interest of the club and the NRL at all times.

The latest public stunt follows the RLPA telling players to commence a media boycott three weeks ago.

Supporters have been left short-changed, unable to hear from their heroes pre-game, at half-time or at the final whistle.

Cowboys halfback Chad Townsend confirmed NRL and NRLW players would cover the NRL logo this weekend in response to a perceived ‘lack of respect’ from the governing body.

‘We are escalating our action as a playing group because the NRL have shown a complete lack of respect by not agreeing to what is a very reasonable path forward in negotiations,’ he said.

‘The NRL and NRLW players need our CBAs agreed as soon as possible, but we wont be dictated to by the Commission or NRL.’

Cowboys halfback Chad Townsend confirmed players would cover the NRL logo this weekend in response to a perceived ‘lack of respect’ from the governing body

Roosters coach Trent Robinson said a resolution needs to be achieved between the RLPA and the NRL – and quickly.

‘At the end of the day, they both need to understand that the game is why we are here,’ Robinson said following his team’s defeat to the Broncos on Thursday.

‘The game is the product, so just don’t affect that. How they get the result of those negotiations, just protect the game.

‘We are in such a good spot because of both of those parties, but don’t let it go too far.’

Ominously, there has already been talk players could boycott the NRL’s annual night of nights – the Dally M Medal – if a resolution isn’t achieved.