Oliver Jones

The National Rugby League has revealed major sponsor Telstra demanded “tough action” after the so-called “Summer of Hell” of player scandals, as it attempts to defend its no fault stand-down rule in an appeal launched by Dragons player Jack de Belin challenging his suspension.

Rugby league player Jack de Belin is weighing an appeal after losing his court challenge to the NRL’s “no fault” stand-down rule, while the players’ representative body considers a collective dispute under the Fair Work Act.