Phil Gould has strongly criticized the NRL’s scheduling, labelling it “ridiculous,” as the Penrith Panthers prepare for a critical round 16 match against the Warriors in Auckland. The defending champions will be missing several key players due to their commitments to the State of Origin series; head coach Ivan Cleary announced following the Panthers’ victory over the Tigers that these players, including Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Brian To’o, Liam Martin, and Dylan Edwards, will not be making the trip.
Gould expressed his frustrations on Wide World of Sports, stating that it’s unfair for the Panthers not to have the option to field their best players. He pointed out the logistical issues caused by the scheduling, highlighting the challenge of having Origin players compete on Wednesday night in Perth and then expect them to play again in New Zealand just two days later. “It’s terrible,” he lamented, suggesting that if he were still part of the Panthers, he would be extremely upset about the situation.
He further commented on the impact of such scheduling on the team’s current performance, noting they are now battling for a top-eight finish, a stark contrast to previous seasons when they led the competition. Gould questioned the decision-making of those at the NRL, implying that it undermines the integrity of the game and the product overall. The Panthers currently sit ninth on the ladder, reflecting the tough season they are facing.