except that it doesnt
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/spo...l/news-story/39b6a6fd1ba03acc596f448f57b26660
The Australian
Tim Simona’s time at Wests Tigers was coming to an end but it is his career in the NRL itself which is now under threat after an investigation by the integrity unit led to allegations he breached the code’s stringent gambling edict.
While both the NRL and the Wests Tigers were tight-lipped last night, it is understood Simona was broached by the integrity unit over allegations he made a series of small bets on games involving both his club and others in the premiership.
There were suggestions the NRL had received a tip-off by police. Regardless, Simona could have his contract deregistered by the NRL as they continue their hardline stance on gambling by their players and officials.
There were also suggestions he was putting bets on himself to be the first tryscorer and may have been using another person’s account to place the wagers.
Two years ago,
The Weekend Australian revealed that a sweeping review of gambling across the code had resulted in a handful of NRL players being sanctioned. The most prominent was former Manly winger David Williams, who was banned for a large chunk of the 2014 season after he was found to have bet on games he was playing in.
Simona has been given time to answer the allegations before a final decision is made on any sanctions by head of integrity Nick Weeks. He then has the right to appeal.
“The NRL today issued a notice of intention to cancel the registration of Wests Tigers player Tim Simona,” the NRL said in a statement. “The notice relates to alleged breaches of the rules relating to gambling on NRL matches. Simona will now be prohibited from training or playing with the club until the matter is finalised.
“He will be given a chance to respond to the allegations before a final determination is made.”
The Tigers said: “Wests Tigers have been made aware that player Tim Simona is currently under investigation by the NRL integrity unit in regards to allegations of breaches of the rules relating to gambling on NRL matches.”
Allegations of Simona’s gambling woes come after a pre-season in which all clubs and players were reminded of their responsibilities under the game’s code of behaviour, which states that players and officials may not directly or indirectly be involved in gambling or the provision of information.
It also shapes as an unnecessary distraction for the club and its coach Jason Taylor, who has enjoyed an off-season of serenity in comparison to last year’s dramas surrounding his relationship with former captain Robbie Farah.
While Simona is prohibited from training or playing with the club, Tigers officials sought permission from the NRL to allow their welfare staff to remain in touch with the 25-year-old Samoan international.
“Our concerns at the moment lie with the welfare of Tim,” Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said.
Simona had been offered to a handful of clubs in recent weeks as the Tigers looked to free up some money under the salary cap, among them the Gold Coast.
It is understood the Titans showed an initial interest but eventually dropped off after doing background checks on the centre, who has made 79 appearances in first grade for the Tigers since making his debut in 2011.
They were, however, unaware of any gambling issues with the Tigers back. Their cooling of interest has proved to be a blessing in disguise given events yesterday.
They may turn out to be a blessing as well for the Tigers given the club is in the throes of attempting to retain a handful of big-name players including the big four James Tedesco, Mitchell Moses, Luke Brooks and Aaron Woods.
Off-season recruit Jamal Idris had already been earmarked to fill Simona’s centre spot and if he is deregistered, it will free up money to throw at their crucial quartet.
The players union said they would continue to support Simona through the process.
“Like any integrity related issues, if a player is found to have breached the rules it is important that he takes responsibility for his actions and is held accountable,” Rugby League Players Association CEO Ian Prendergast said.
