Melbourne Storm captain Harry Grant has become a contentious figure among Penrith Panthers fans following his pivotal role in a close NRL match on Thursday night. In an apparent bid to secure a penalty, Grant collided with Penrith prop Moses Leota, which led to Nathan Cleary’s potential game-winning field goal being overturned. Grant subsequently scored the decisive try in extra time, sealing victory for his team.
On Friday’s episode of Nine’s Today, Grant engaged with sports presenter Danika Mason, who had criticized his actions, labelling them as an overt attempt to exaggerate a foul. Mason voiced her frustration, noting that many fans were likely upset by Grant’s antics. "He was playing up to it," she remarked, adding that this was not the first instance of Grant allegedly diving for a penalty.
Unbeknownst to her, Grant was already on set waiting for his turn to speak, providing a humorous twist when host Karl Stefanovic revealed his presence. With a cheeky grin, Grant retorted to Mason, “It’s two v one, sorry Danika, you’re outnumbered,” prompting laughter among the panel.
The conversation quickly turned to the legitimacy of Grant’s actions. He defended his play by stating, "They are the rules," and noted that both the on-field referee and the Bunker official had approved his strategy. Mason continued the jest by humorously presenting Grant with a Logie for his “acting performance,” sparking further banter about its true ownership.
Throughout the segment, Grant maintained a light-hearted tone, complimenting the emotional resilience of Storm coach Craig Bellamy, who seldom smiles in public. As the team’s performances have positioned them as premiership contenders, Thursday’s match may well have foreshadowed a grand final encounter.
In the wake of this incident, Grant’s dual role as both a skilled player and the subject of controversy seems to keep him firmly in the spotlight, especially amongst opposing fans.