Phil Rothfield: NRL facing problem with players seeking contract releases on compassionate grounds

THE NRL is facing a major problem with players trying to break contracts on compassionate grounds, writes Phil Rothfield.

THE NRL is facing a major problem with players trying to break contracts on compassionate grounds.

First we had Ben Barba wanting to quit the Bulldogs to move home to Queensland with his family - two years before his contract expires.

Then Canberra’s boom rookie Anthony Milford announces he wants to return to Brisbane to be with his sick father - 12 months before his contract is up.

And now Blake Ferguson wants to return to Sydney to be with his uncle Anthony Mundine.

All three probably have legitimate reasons to be moving from their current clubs.

But there is a serious danger of ‘compassionate grounds’ becoming just another escape clause for anyone wanting to switch clubs.

Who will eventually decide on the above three cases? Should they have to go before an NRL panel that includes a psychology expert?

We’re talking here about three of the hottest talents in the NRL.

We all know Ben Barba is dealing with personal issues and trying to save his relationship with his former partner.

We know Milford’s dad had a heart attack last year and wants to be with his son.

And we know Ferguson is less likely to find trouble when he is under the care of his uncle in Sydney.

But what’s to stop other players looking for a sympathetic reason to change clubs midway through a contract.

What if Billy Slater decides he’s had enough at Storm and wants to switch to the Titans to be closer to his family?

Anthony Milford

Can the Titans do what the Broncos have done and make it known they want both Milford and Barba?

Would Barba and Milford still be keen to leave their current clubs if the Broncos had shown no interest?

They are all cases the NRL needs to examine.