Manly star Manase Fainu’s plan to get back to NRL after lengthy court delay

The legal team representing suspended NRL star Manase Fainu, who’s been charged over a stabbing, could apply for a judge-alone trial to get him back on the field as soon as possible.

Lawyers for suspended NRL player Manase Fainu, who’s been accused of a stabbing, could apply for a judge-alone trial to fast track his return after being told he would have to wait until mid-next year to fight the allegations before a jury.

The Manly Sea Eagles hooker hasn’t played a game since 2019 after he was sidelined under the NRL’s no-fault stand down rule following the incident at a Mormon church dance in Sydney’s southwest.

The long court delay due to Covid restrictions prompted Manly boss Stephen Humphreys to say he felt for the 23-year-old, who is now facing a possible third consecutive season on the sidelines.

Manase Fainu of the Sea Eagles warms up prior to the First NRL Elimination Final between the Manly Sea Eagles and the Cronulla Sharks at Lottoland on September 14, 2019. Picture: AAP

Fainu’s barrister, Margaret Cunneen, SC, said his legal team may apply for a judge-alone trial instead after they were told on Monday in Parramatta District Court the earliest possible jury trial date was July, 2022.

“We have considered that and we might yet revisit that question now that we know how far off it is, but we’ll have to take some instructions,” Ms Cunneen said outside court.

Ms Cunneen said her client was disappointed over the delay when she spoke to him after his court mention, which was originally supposed to be when his trial would start.

“He’s disappointed because it stretches so far, a year is just so far into the future … a few weeks ago the courts were giving out times earlier for next year, but now everyone’s had to go back,” she said.

Fainu leaves Parklea Correctional Centre after being granted bail.

Meanwhile, Mr Humphreys told The Daily Telegraph he felt for Fainu.

“This latest delay only adds even more stress and anxiety for Manase and his family,” Mr Humphreys said.

“His football career but, more importantly, his whole life will have been on hold for the better part of three years by the time his next hearing date comes around.

“That’s the sad reality and I certainly feel for him.”

Fainu’s manager Mario Tartak also said he was “extremely disappointed” with the delay.

“It’s totally out of our hands, it’s unfortunately due to Covid,” he said.

NRL player Manase Fainu leaves Parklea Correctional Centre in Parklea.

Fainu has pleaded not guilty to intentionally wounding after police alleged he stabbed a 24-year-old man during a brawl at the dance.

The court heard the alleged victim could not say who it actually was who plunged the knife into him.

Judge Gina O’Rourke, SC, set a trial date for July, 2022, but she also told Ms Cunneen that she could speak with prosecutors about the alleged victim giving evidence in a prerecorded video, which could potentially bring the trial date forward.

The judge listed the matter for a call over next May when lawyers will discuss any issues pending any earlier trial date.