RLPA hits back at NRL in pay talks

The players’ union has hit back at recent claims from the NRL that their pay demands would destroy the game, saying they have been been misrepresented in talks with their clubs.

The Rugby League Players’ Association on Sunday responded to leaked emails from the NRL to clubs explaining why the RLPA’s collective bargaining agreement proposal was unaffordable.

According to Fairfax Media, league headquarters believes player payments would rise beyond the $1 billion mark over the next five-year span of the CBA.

The email also stated that the players’ submission would threaten to eat into club grants that are believed to be 130 per cent of a salary cap that could reach as high as $10 million.

“The inflammatory language and misinformation contained in the NRL’s memorandum to clubs, which has now been leaked into the public domain, threatens to undermine the collaborative process both sides have committed to,” the RLPA said in a statement.

“Players stand united by their proposal, which will ultimately allow the game to prosper in the future, and look forward to explaining it to the NRL and clubs in the coming weeks.”

The NRL told clubs in the email that the RLPA’s offer showed “an apparent disregard for the game” and that, if accepted, would give up its control of the game.

It comes after players union board member James Maloney this week questioned the game’s handling of the finances, and also claimed the RLPA were being misrepresented.

RLPA chief executive Ian Prendergast said players would continue to work with the governing body when discussions resume on June 5.

He reiterated the players’ desire to earn a fixed share of the game’s revenue.

“The players remain steadfast in their commitment securing a genuine partnership with the NRL and clubs, including securing a guaranteed fair share of the game’s revenue,” he said.

“The RLPA’s proposal ensures players are incentivised to protect and grow the game by sharing in both the downside and any upside that is achieved by working together.”

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