NRL star Bryce Cartwright allowed to play without flu shot
NRL player Bryce Cartwright has been granted a medical exemption by the Queensland government for the flu shot
NRL player Bryce Cartwright has been granted a medical exemption for the flu shot by the Queensland government and will be able to play for the Titans when the season resumes on May 28.
Cartwright was at risk of having his contract torn up by the Titans after refusing to have the flu vaccination, a decision that meant the forward was denied the opportunity to resume training due to the strict rules in place in Queensland.
However, it is understood he applied for a medical exemption on Thursday and was successful, meaning he will be able to resume his rugby league career with immediate effect.
His decision removes a significant headache for the NRL and the Titans. Cartwright’s teammate Brian Kelly backed down earlier in the day after agreeing to have a flu shot.
Cartwright and his wife, Shanelle, had been vocal on the issue and the Titans backrower appeared ready to dig in his heels despite the threat of being stood down by his club.
They were spared an ugly legal confrontation when Cartwright applied to the Queensland government for a medical exemption.
“Bryce Cartwright provided the club with medical documentation seeking an exemption from the influenza vaccine protocol,” the Titans said.
“This was subsequently passed on to Queensland’s Chief Medical Officer Jeannette Young for review.
“Dr Young has granted Cartwright an exemption based on medical grounds.
“Cartwright is now eligible to return to training with the playing squad in preparation for the season restart.”
On Thursday Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold said it would be unfair and that the NRL would be “kidding themselves” to cave to the minority and make the three Queensland clubs travel for “home” games in NSW.
“If we’re having to (play a home game) in Sydney because only seven players from a couple of different teams haven’t gotten the jab, that would be quite unfair,” said Seibold.
“Why should the Cowboys, us at the Broncos and the Storm be penalised for the minority?”
Titans chief executive Steve Mitchell has also opposed a shift away from their home ground, with the next two weeks of the draw set to be announced on Friday.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING: AAP
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