Phil Rothfield: Unproven sexual assault claims may end Jarryd Hayne’s career ... and that’s a shame

As a footballer, Jarryd Hayne is as gifted as any. I can’t say the same about him as a human being. But I’m actually sticking up for him.

As a footballer, Jarryd Hayne is as gifted as any I’ve seen in the modern era.

I can’t say the same about him as a human being, not that I’ve had that much to do
with him.

He appears brash, impetuous and sometimes big-headed.

But this column is not about that and I’m actually sticking up for him.

These latest sexual assault claims will probably end his career prematurely at 30 years of age.

Even if he’s cleared, there’s the stigma.

MORE BUZZ: Finally I can #NRLtalkthegameup

Jarryd Hayne’s career is at the crossroads. Picture: Zak Simmonds

I’ll start by saying my emotional thoughts are with the young lady and her family more than anything else. You always think in these cases: What if it was your own daughter?

However, everyone knows there must be a presumption of innocence before anyone is condemned, especially before charges have even been laid, as the case is here.

Think about it. If Hayne was John Smith, who worked in a low-profile job, would we have even heard about this case, let alone have it leading news bulletins on Channel 9 and making the front page of this newspaper.

In no way am I playing down the allegations.

But does a person deserve to lose his career and his livelihood over unproven claims?

I know for a fact St George Illawarra and the Parramatta Eels are now off Hayne.

NRL clubs are off Jarryd Hayne.

I rang Eels coach Brad Arthuron Saturday to ask if he would still support the fallen superstar.

“I’m not allowed to comment, mate,” Arthur said. “Ring (CEO) Bernie Gurr. We’ve been told not to say anything.”

Right now, police investigators are determining if they should take any further action.

Meanwhile, Hayne’s career has been left at the bottom of the scrapheap.

And I’m not sure that’s fair.

HIGHLIGHT

Glenn Maxwell’s unbelievably spectacular catch against South Africa on the Gold Coast on Saturday night. I have seen nothing more skilful on a sporting field this year.

LOWLIGHT

Swans star Kieren Jack married long-time partner Charlotte Goodlet but didn’t invite his mum or dad. This is such a sad story. I have known Kieren’s father Garry, the former Balmain Tigers fullback, for more than 30 years. He is a good man.

Charlotte Goodlet and Kieran Jack get married.

LOWLIGHT II

John Hopoate’s re-enactment of the infamous 2001 finger-poking scandal at the Legends of League event in Gosford on Saturday. It might have been a joke but it was still disgusting and shouldn’t have happened at a charity event.

Hoppa’s shocker at the Legends of League tournament at Central Coast Stadium. Picture: Tim Hunter.

SPOTTED

Former Wests Tigers teammates Luke Brooks and Mitchell Moses at the Harbourlife concert on Sydney Harbour on Saturday, behaving like gentlemen for anyone who asked for selfies.

■ NRL boss Todd Greenberg at the Lugarno Cafe Car Wash on Saturday morning.

■ NSWRL chief executive Dave Trodden and former NSW premier Barry O’Farrell at Anthony Watmough’s Lebanese restaurant in Circular Quay. Mark Bouris was at the next table.

SHOOSH

Which NRL club is trying to deal with a massive power struggle between the chairman and his deputy which has the potential to split the board?

SHOOSH II

Which high-profile coach had an overseas study tour to Europe cancelled by his CEO and directors as part of cost-cutting?

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