Steve Matai threatens legal action over reports his phone was seized by NSW Police
Posted 10 minutes agoFri 9 Sep 2016, 3:46pm
Steve Matai has vehemently denied media reports saying his phone had been seized by police, threatening legal action.
Fairfax Media and the Seven Network said on Friday Matai's phone had been taken as
NSW Police investigate alleged match-fixing in the NRL.
But the Manly centre rejected the reports and a club statement said Matai's management would commence legal proceedings for defamation against the outlets who named Matai.
"My phone has never been out of my possession and I have never been interviewed by police," Matai said.
"I am humiliated by the baseless rumour and this is really upsetting for my family.
"I can't believe my name has been thrown out there like this."
The statement also said Matai had his phone on him when Manly officials visited the 32-year-old.
Sea Eagles chief executive Joe Kelly said the Sea Eagles would continue to support "such an icon of our club".
"He has given us no reason to do otherwise over 14 years of service," Kelly said.
Dozens of players, officials and members of the public are expected to be interviewed as a NSW Police strike force investigates reports of "cheating at gambling" and match-fixing in the NRL.
Police said they would work with the New South Wales Crime Commission and they have the full support of the NRL.