Greg Alexander Responds to Shane Elford Ball-Wetting Controversy
Penrith Panthers icon Greg Alexander has addressed footage showing team trainer Shane Elford spraying water on the ball before a kick-off against the Cowboys, downplaying claims that it’s a common tactic used across the NRL. The incident, which quickly circulated online, has prompted the NRL to consider issuing a fine to the Panthers.
The video appeared to show Elford intentionally wetting the ball before handing it to fullback Dylan Edwards, sparking speculation that it was an attempt to make the ball more difficult for the Cowboys to handle. Others suggested Elford might have been simply wiping off dirt. According to News Corp, the league is reviewing the incident and a financial penalty is likely.
Veteran journalist Phil Rothfield discussed the incident on Sky Sports Radio, saying: “It may not be a major scandal, but it certainly doesn’t look good. Even a bit of water on the ball can affect handling. I’ve been told this isn’t the first time Elford has done something like this, and he’s been spoken to before about bending the rules. I expect the NRL to fine him later this week.”
Alexander Denies It’s a Common Practice
Speaking on SEN Radio, Alexander laughed off the idea that teams across the league regularly do this. “It was like a sandpaper moment,” he quipped, referencing cricket’s infamous ball-tampering saga. “I haven’t seen it happen before and can’t confirm if other teams do it, because I’ve simply never witnessed it.”
Co-host Andrew Voss called for immediate rule clarification from the NRL. “Graham Annesley should put out a statement today banning trainers from touching the ball at all. There’s absolutely no reason for them to handle it. The fix is simple.”
Cowboys Coach Suggests It Was Repeated
Cowboys coach Todd Payten, speaking after the 30-30 draw, claimed the incident wasn’t isolated. “We noticed it happening before every kick-off,” he said. “It caught our attention in the coaching box. I’ll let the NRL investigate it, but it definitely stood out.”
Shane Elford, who has played a key role in Penrith’s recent dominance as a trainer, had a lengthy playing career with 178 first-grade appearances. He featured in two stints with the Panthers and was part of the Wests Tigers’ 2005 premiership-winning squad.
