The players are opposing wearing the jersey on religious grounds
Seven Manly players have reportedly withdrawn from Thursday’s game against the Sydney Roosters because of the club’s inclusive kit.
As reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, Josh Aloiai, Jason Saab, Christian Tuipulotu, Josh Schuster, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tolutau Koula and Toafofoa Sipley are all refusing to play over the pride shirt.
The report states that the seven players are said to be opposing wearing the jersey on religious grounds. Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler reportedly told the players that he understood they were put in a ‘difficult decision’ and supported their decision not to play.
Manly unveiled the jersey – called Everyone in League – to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in the NRL. It features Rainbow colours, which replace the traditional white stripes on the maroon background.
By wearing the pride jersey, Manly will become the first NRL club to wear a pride jersey in rugby league’s 134-year history.
Sea Eagles players Kieran Foran, Sean Keppie and Reuben Garrick posed with the new shirt as it was unveiled over the weekend.
You, Me, Everyone in League.https://t.co/csnxCYOs7h@dynasty_sport #ManlyForever pic.twitter.com/buVY5B8Vgm
— Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (@SeaEagles) July 24, 2022
Manly’s interim chief executive Gary Wolman said the club was proud of the initiative, stating: “The Sea Eagles have such a rich and diverse history in rugby league and in the community,’ he said at the unveiling of the jersey.
“To be able to bring this concept to life with Dynasty sport is a fantastic achievement and we are pleased to be able to share such an important message that means so much to many people in the community.”
However, the club are now facing the risk of having to play without seven players for their clash against the Roosters. The game is a crucial one, with ninth-placed Sea Eagles trailing the eighth-placed Roosters just on point differential.
It is thought that the NRL will not allow players who oppose the Rainbow jersey to wear an alternative kit.
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