Cronulla Sharks five-eighth Braydon Trindall has sparked major controversy following a heated war of words with Parramatta Eels star Mitchell Moses during their intense NRL showdown, repeatedly spraying the Eels halfback and branding him a “p****” in an ugly on-field exchange.
The fiery incident erupted after Trindall was placed on report for a late shot on Moses in the second half, a hit that left the playmaker clearly shaken. As tensions flared, Trindall doubled down on the aggression—not with his tackling, but with his tongue—launching into a relentless verbal tirade that stunned onlookers and players alike.
Television microphones and cameras caught Trindall walking past Moses during a stoppage in play, muttering and then audibly repeating the crude slur in the playmaker’s direction, igniting further animosity between both teams.
While officials attempted to restore order, Moses appeared to maintain composure, refusing to respond in kind. However, the incident is expected to draw the attention of the NRL’s match review committee, both for the late hit and Trindall’s inflammatory language.
Fans on social media were quick to weigh in, with opinions split over whether the outburst was part of the game’s fierce competitive spirit or crossed a line into unacceptable sledging.
NRL Integrity Unit officials are reportedly reviewing the footage, and sanctions could follow if Trindall is found to have breached the league’s code of conduct.
Trindall, who returned to the Sharks lineup recently, has already been under scrutiny for his form and fitness, and this latest incident may overshadow what was otherwise a competitive performance from the playmaker.
The Eels have yet to release a formal comment, though club insiders say Moses was left unimpressed by the sledge but determined to let his football do the talking.
With the finals approaching, this explosive exchange could set the stage for an even more intense rematch—should the two sides meet again down the line.
