NewsBite

Ex-NRL star unleashes scathing criticism of Manly players and their boycott stance

A former NRL star has posted a scathing story on his Instagram account as he takes aim at the players boycotting the pride jersey.

NRL claim they are open to holding a Pride Round

The seven Manly Sea Eagles players who refused to don the club’s one-off pride jersey have been dealt a scathing blow by a former NRL star.

Retired international player Jordan Kahu unleashed on the players and the impact their decision could have on the next generation.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

The former New Zealand Test star posted a lengthy take on his Instagram account on Wednesday afternoon, questioning if the players considered the full actions of their stance.

“You want to pick and choose when you want to stand. You want to pick and choose when you want to be inclusive,” Kahu wrote.

“These humans don’t get to pick and choose who they are! You ‘stand’ with these players? They don’t even know who the f*** you are and won’t even see it.

“But someone who does know you might see it, someone whose (sic) been struggling with telling everyone the truth.

“Why? Because they’re made to feel they’re not normal. And then what might they do?

“Quick Google search and you can find that there are nine-year-olds taking their own life because of this shit. f***ing nine! What if this was your kid?”

Jordan Kahu's Instagram story on jersey saga
Jordan Kahu's Instagram story on jersey saga
Kahu in his playing days. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)
Kahu in his playing days. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

Kahu’s scathing criticism comes hot on the heels of Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson blasting the boycott.

The Sea Eagles were thrown into turmoil on Monday, after a player revolt over their pride jersey.

Seven players have sensationally stood down after the club announced the pride jersey – featuring rainbow stripes and trim – would be worn as a one-off this week.

The players in question are: Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolutau Koula and Toafofoa Sipley.

They were reportedly opposed to wearing the jersey due to their religious beliefs.

Manly held an emergency meeting on Monday night with the players in question. The club will now face the Roosters without them.

Manly will become the first club in NRL history to wear a jersey celebrating inclusivity, with rainbow colours replacing the traditional white piping.

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/exnrl-star-unleashes-scathing-criticism-of-manly-players-and-their-boycott-stance/news-story/3c4cf6888a27a48b95698f3a9fab7359