“To get upset about a jersey with a few extra colours,on the piping ... I was astounded that was a stance that some players have taken.”

The NRL has floated the prospect of a Pride round,despite the fact the initiative has the potential to divide the game in the same way it has split the Sea Eagles.

‘I realised it’s not even a pride jersey which makes it even worse’

NRLW player Karina Brown

Asked if she supported the concept,Gold Coast Titans co-owner Rebecca Frizell said:“100 per cent. But it’s about engagement with our whole club to ensure they are comfortable as well. I could see no reason why we wouldn’t want to support it.”

The Manly fallout was also a topic of interest at Penrith,where some of the club’s highest-profile players were making a scheduled media appearance.

“I’m in a position where I think that unless you 100 per cent know everyone’s beliefs and their religious beliefs,I don’t think you’re in a position to judge,” said Nathan Cleary.

“Personally,I don’t have a problem with the jersey. On the other hand,with their beliefs,you can’t judge that. As much as I respect the inclusivity of everyone,you have to respect their beliefs too. That’s how I see it.”

Panthers and Blues teammate Isaah Yeo said the divisions at Manly would be mirrored across the league if a Pride round went ahead.

“They need the players’ voices there,” Yeo said. “If they were to do that they’d need to go back and forth with the players because it feels like there will be the same problem at Manly everywhere else.

“I don’t think they are the only team that will have that drama. There’s high religious[groups] at all teams. If there’s a problem there at Manly I dare say there’d be problems at other teams as well.”

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