NRL 2023: RLPA consider delaying games in next step of CBA war after covering logo

The RLPA have upped the ante in their CBA negotiations by taping over the NRL logo. And they’ve already discussed their next protest move.

Players could force delayed kick-offs by staying in the dressing rooms at the schedulded start time. Picture: NRL Imagery.

Delaying games from kicking-off on time has been discussed as the next protest move by the Rugby League Players Association.

In readiness for the current NRL logo cover-up failing to have its desired impact, this masthead has learned RLPA management are contemplating the next step, which could result in players being told to disrupt the game-day experience for fans and interrupt the broadcast of matches.

The desperate tactic has emerged as Telstra, the NRL’s major sponsor for more than 20 years, remains in contact with head office over the decision by the players to cover their logo as part of their protest over the slow progress of CBA negotiations.

NRL players have begun covering the NRL logo on their jerseys, and now are considering their next course of action. Picture: Getty Images.

The words “NRL Telstra Premiership” are written directly below the NRL logo on the club jerseys but were noticeably buried underneath strapping tape on Thursday night as round 22 kicked off with male and female players escalating their fight against the governing body.

Telstra officials are well aware of the situation, which is likely to breach their contract with the NRL. Sources close to the game queried why Telstra, a long and loyal backer of rugby league, was the only sponsor to be damaged by the protest.

There seems little doubt the players have breached their own contracts by covering the logos - section 3.1(k) of the playing contract makes it clear that players must at all times act in the best interest of the club and the NRL.

Players could force delayed kick-offs by staying in the dressing rooms at the schedulded start time. Picture: NRL Imagery.

It may not be the end of the matter as the NRL braces for the players to take more action to press their point. It is understood the strategy to stay inside the dressing room and delay kick-off times remains at a discussion-level within the RLPA.

It has been suggested the RLPA are taking notes from Trade Union boss Sally McManus, who RLPA CEO Clint Newton met recently in Melbourne.

The RLPA commenced their media boycott three weeks ago. Due to its lack of impact on the NRL, the players union asked every NRL and NRLW player to step-up their protest by covering the NRL logo during all matches this weekend.

Again, it has fallen flat. The RLPA has been ridiculed by fans across social media for the “childish” and “amateurish” decision to use strapping tape to cover the NRL logo on every player jersey this weekend.

Roosters coach Trent Robinson warned that the battle between the NRL and players is going too far. Picture: Getty Images.

Fans have noted that the NRL logo is still visible on the shorts of players. Delaying games was first raised by the RLPA in the pre-season but they opted not to push ahead with the plan amid a backlash from some clubs.

However, it is understood it is now back on the table. Quite prophetically, Roosters coach Trent Robinson warned on Thursday night against the cold war going too far.

“At the end of the day, they both need to understand that the game is why we’re here and what we love it for,’’ Robinson said.

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

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

Originally published as NRL 2023: RLPA consider delaying games in next step of CBA war after covering logo