Al-anwar Newspaper English news in Australia
Former NRL star Corey Norman is facing the shame of being suspended long-term for allegedly sticking his finger up the backside of an opposition player.
The disgusting allegations — which emerged in England’s The Sun newspaper — come 21 years after Wests Tigers winger John Hopoate was banished from rugby league for committing the same vulgar act.
Norman, who played for Parramatta, Brisbane and St George Illawarra over a 12-year NRL career, was placed on report last week while playing halfback for Toulouse in a Super League game against Warrington.
It is alleged he poked the bum of Wolves player Oliver Holmes.
The Rugby Football League have charged Norman was a high Grade F contrary conduct offence which carries a suspension of least eight games.
Norman could be banned for longer.
The Sun reported: “Details on his record state it is for ‘inappropriate contact,’ and Sun Sport understands it is for trying to insert his digit where it was not wanted.
“Norman, 31, was caught on camera reaching between Holmes’ legs as he made a challenge and was placed on report by referee Chris Kendall.”
A hearing has been set scheduled for Tuesday night in England. Norman is seen as a key player in Toulouse’s battle to avoid relegation.
There are four regular season matches remaining in Super League.
Castleford’s Kenny Edwards was suspended for 10 games for a similar act last year on former Bulldogs prop Sam Kasiano last year during his tenure at Huddersfield,
Hopoate inserted his finger in the anus of three North Queensland players back in 2001. He was suspended for 12 games with one NRL official describing his behaviour as “disgusting, violent and offensive.”
Norman’s Australian based manager has defended his client after watching footage of the incident.
“I would be stunned if it was not an accident,” Paul Sutton said.
“I think his hand has just ended up in an unfortunate position. Corey has an immaculate record when it comes to on-field behaviour. He has an exemplary record. I don’t think he has even been charged during his long career. He has certainly never done anything contrary. It is just not his go.”
The charge could not come at a worse time for Norman given his six month deal is set to expire.
Norman was in the process of negotiating a new Super League deal.
