Wayne Bennett and Cody Walker were questioned about an incident involving South Sydney forward Jai Arrow and Bulldogs fans following the Rabbitohs’ 32-0 loss to Canterbury on Good Friday.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Arrow became involved in a heated exchange with a Bulldogs supporter seated behind the Souths bench at Accor Stadium. The situation escalated, and Arrow had to be restrained by team staff. Police also stepped in after Arrow was subjected to heckling while leaving the field in the 65th minute.
Eyewitnesses described the confrontation as intense and emotionally charged, especially given the 65,000-strong crowd at the stadium. Reports also suggest that a Bulldogs fan may have thrown an object at Arrow during the incident.
“You can’t be throwing stuff from the crowd, that’s terrible,” said Aaron Woods on Triple M, while sideline reporter Michael Chammas described the scene as “explosive.” “Jai Arrow had to be held back by South Sydney staff, with John Sutton getting involved—it was real drama on the sideline,” he said.
During the post-match press conference, Daily Telegraph journalist Brent Read raised the issue with Souths head coach Wayne Bennett and captain Cody Walker.
“Jai got upset with a fan at the end of the game and staff had to calm him down. What’s your take?” Read asked.
Bennett replied dryly, “I wish he got upset on the footy field, that would have been good. I don’t know anything about it.”
Walker, who was nearby when the confrontation occurred, said he hadn’t heard what was said. “I was next to him, but with 65,000 people here, I didn’t hear anything.”
Former Bulldogs captain James Graham believes the outburst stemmed from frustration after a heavy loss. “He’s obviously a passionate player. The team just got beaten 32-0, so I understand the emotion,” Graham said. “But in moments like that, you’ve just got to take it. The Bulldogs had their day, and their fans are going to let you know it.”
“As hard as it is—and I know I wouldn’t always show restraint—you’ve got to be the bigger person. As long as it stays within respectful bounds, you’ve just got to wear it.”
