The recent incident involving the Penrith Panthers’ trainer, Shane Elford, who was caught on amateur footage spraying water on the ball to interfere with the Cowboys’ kick-off, has sparked significant discussion in the NRL. While the act itself may seem trivial, it raises concerns about the current state of the Panthers, contrasting sharply with the success of their teams from 2011 to 2014.
This minor controversy is not only a breach of sportsmanship but also reflects the desperation of the Panthers as they struggle to find their footing this season. Following the incident, the NRL is likely to issue a please explain letter and impose fines, highlighting that trainers are prohibited from handling the ball or altering its condition during games. While this may not equate to ball tampering reminiscent of the infamous Australian cricket scandal in South Africa in 2018, it nonetheless undermines the integrity of the game, echoing the phrase “not cricket.”
The legendary Panthers teams of the past did not resort to such tactics; they preferred to dominate opponents through skill and teamwork rather than underhanded methods. Presently, however, the Panthers appear to be grappling with a loss of star power due to players leaving for other clubs, compounded by the effects of the salary cap. Following ten rounds this season, they find themselves languishing near the bottom of the league with only three wins.
For Panthers supporters, the willingness to engage in dubious tactics is perhaps the most troubling sign of all, indicating a team that is not just struggling to win but is also losing its traditional fighting spirit. The contrast between past glory and present tactics raises questions about the team’s direction and resilience as they seek to rectify their current predicament.