Tiger’s Controversial Gesture, Dragons Snag Origin Player, No Rookie Pay for Marky Mark

  • maskobus
  • Aug 08, 2025

Wests Tigers Players Face Sanctions for Offensive Gestures

Wests Tigers centre Brent Naden has been sanctioned by the National Rugby League (NRL) for displaying an offensive gesture in a social media post. Additionally, three of his teammates have received warnings related to their on-field celebrations. The incident occurred during a match at CommBank Stadium, where players were seen making an obscene gesture towards Canterbury supporters.

The NRL Integrity Unit launched an investigation following reports that several Tigers players made the “khod” gesture, which is equivalent to “flipping the bird” in the Arabic community. This happened after the team secured a surprise 28-14 victory over the Bulldogs. Brent Naden, Samuela Fainu, Sunia Turuva, and Latu Fainu were all seen making the hand gesture towards the southern grandstand, where a large group of Bulldogs fans was seated.

Samuela Fainu addressed the issue, stating that the gesture was never meant to cause harm. He explained that it was a form of light-hearted banter shared among friends and even his brothers. Fainu also mentioned that he has many Arabic friends and has embraced their culture, including his agent, who is Lebanese.

In a separate incident, Naden appeared in a deleted TikTok video where he made the gesture and shouted “f***ing dogs.” The video was reportedly sent to a friend and later leaked publicly. The NRL issued a formal warning to the Wests Tigers for the on-field conduct of three players. It also issued a breach notice to Naden, alleging that his actions contravened the NRL Code of Conduct. Naden will have five days to respond to the breach notice, and it is likely he will face a fine of at least $5,000.

The Bulldogs, known for their passionate Middle Eastern fan base, have requested an investigation into the matter. This comes after star signing Lachlan Galvin was verbally abused by a fan before the game. The situation has raised questions about the security measures in place, especially given the tensions expected with Galvin facing his former team for the first time.

Josh Kerr Returns to St George Illawarra

Josh Kerr is set to return to St George Illawarra on a two-year deal after being released by the Dolphins. The front-rower has agreed to terms with the Dragons for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, with only formalities remaining. Kerr has been a consistent performer for the Dolphins this season, making him a fringe member of the Queensland State of Origin squad.

The Dolphins are currently dealing with a salary-cap issue after their third season in the competition. Other forwards such as Mark Nicholls, Felise Kaufusi, and Kenny Bromwich remain unsigned. Kerr debuted at the Dragons in 2019, playing 68 games for the club before moving to the Dolphins in mid-2023.

The Dragons are undergoing a regeneration of their pack under coach Shane Flanagan, with several key players set to move on. Michael Molo, Raymond Faitala-Mariner, and David Klemmer are among those off-contract. Young talents like Toby and Ryan Couchman, Hamish Stewart, and Dylan Egan are expected to play significant roles in the club’s future.

Mark Nawaqanitawase Excluded from Dally M Rookie of the Year

Connor Watson has criticized the NRL for a mid-season rule change that excluded his teammate Mark Nawaqanitawase from the Dally M Rookie of the Year award. The rule now bars players who have played five professional matches in any sporting code from eligibility. Nawaqanitawase, a rugby convert, played for Super Rugby’s Waratahs between 2020 and 2024 and represented Australia in rugby union and sevens.

Nawaqanitawase’s 13 tries make him the equal fifth-highest scorer in the NRL this season. However, his exclusion has left other players such as Robert Toia, Leka Halasima, and Isaiah Iongi as leading candidates for the award. Watson praised Nawaqanitawase’s positive impact on the Roosters’ team dynamics, noting his energy and positivity.

Watson also commended the NRL for expanding Indigenous Round across two weekends this season, allowing each team to host their own events and engage with local communities.

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