http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/-zt0zx.html
ADRIAN PROSZENKO
Manly winger David Williams is one of the players being investigated for betting on rugby league games. The NRL is in the process of finalising its findings, with an announcement expected this week. Fairfax Media revealed last month that a Sea Eagles player, along with a member of the Gold Coast playing roster, are among those who wagered on NRL matches. Those players guilty of more serious breaches will be named by the governing body and will receive suspensions. However, it's expected most players and officials won't be named and shamed.
The majority of wagers were often small - most $5 or less - and there is no suggestion of match fixing. One high-profile player, who placed a small bet, is amongst those caught out but is not expected to be outed. NRL officials are fuming Williams' name became public over fears the drama will overshadow the final game of the marquee State of Origin series. Williams is a former NSW and Australian winger but his form has dipped and has spent most of the season languishing in the NSW Cup.
There is no evidence of spot or match-fixing but the NRL, which hasn't had an official betting partner since it severed ties with Tabcorp in 2012, still wants to send a message the behaviour won't be tolerated. The NRL has taken the unprecedented step of partially funding a feature film, Broke, as part of its educational messages to players. The Australian production - which stars Claire van der Boom, Steve Le Marquand and Steve Bastoni - deals with gambling issues and will donate any profits to the Men of League foundation. Meanwhile, Tony McGrath has been appointed as Peter Gregg's replacement on the ARLC.
A former partner at KPMG, McGrath is the co-founder, partner and co-chairman of restructuring and advisory firm McGrathNicol. He is also on the boards of QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited, the National Foundation for Medical Research and Innovation, as well as Special Olympics Australia. “I am looking forward to working with my fellow Commissioners and the NRL Senior Management team to assist them on what has clearly been a successful journey since the formation of the Commission in November 2012,” McGrath said.
ARLC Chairman John Grant added: “Off the field, the Commission remains focused on ensuring rugby league has the right governance and commercial frameworks in place to keep growing as a professional sport. “We are delighted to have Tony McGrath agree to join the Commission. He has advised on a number of high profile corporate restructures and will bring valuable experience to the business of rugby league."
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