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'Apologetic' Rockets issue a follow-up Ferguson sacking statement

(Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

The arrest and subsequent sacking of Blake Ferguson by Green Rockets has sent his Japanese rugby club into damage control. The former NRL star was arrested on suspicion of possessing illegal drugs, with local media reporting the police were called to a Tokyo restaurant after 31-year-old was involved in an altercation with another patron.

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The NEC Green Rockets, where former Wallabies mentor Michael Cheika is coaching director, initially issued a brief statement revealing that the contract for Ferguson had been terminated.

A far broader offering was then released by the club, confirming after consideration their participation in their Top League January 8 opener. “With the intention of restoring trust through full play and fulfilling our responsibilities for sports promotion and regional revitalisation, including rugby,” the statement continued.

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Joyeux Noel & The European Dilemma | Le French Rugby Podcast | Episode 11

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      Joyeux Noel & The European Dilemma | Le French Rugby Podcast | Episode 11

      Benji’s back to tell us about his try-scoring exploits in Dubai, Johnnie’s navigated travel chaos to make it home for Christmas and we look back on a weekend where politics played its part and Castres were the only French side in action in the Champions Cup. We assess whether the whole of Round 2 should have been postponed as the Top 14 sides wanted, whether there’s going to be an asterisk by the name of the winner once more and what’s next for European rugby this season. Plus, there’s some hot coaching gossip and we pick our MEATER Moment of the Week…
      Use the code FRENCHPOD10 at checkout for 10% off any full price item at Meater.com

      The “deeply apologetic” club took responsibility for Ferguson’s actions, stating they would conduct a widespread staffing restructure to ensure there was no repeat.

      The club will also donate a portion of the proceeds from home games this year to combat the eradication of illegal drugs in the league. All players were drug tested and made to take a pledge after compliance measures were reiterated.

      “We sincerely apologise for the great concern and inconvenience caused to everyone involved at the very important time that the start of Japan Rugby League One is imminent, and that it has greatly betrayed the expectations of everyone who supports and supports the team on a daily basis,” the statement read. “We will work together as a team to earnestly strive to restore your trust as soon as possible.”

      New Zealander Joel Everson served 23 days in a Japanese prison in 2020 after testing positive for the use of cocaine while playing for Hino Red Dolphins.

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      In a mark of how seriously rugby officials took the matter, all matches in the-then Top League were susp ended for three weeks after Everson’s arrest and the Red Dolphins cancelled all their remaining fixtures for the season.

       

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      GabrielArthur 44 minutes ago
      Conor Murray: French giants weigh up shock move for Ireland star

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      GS 2 hours ago
      James O'Connor, the Lions and the great club v country conundrum

      Whilst I dislike what is occurring with the French clubs, they are not the only parties involved in this activity. You can also look to Ireland and its “Project Player” Scheme, or how Scotland picks players with zero background who have never lived in Scotland.


      But market forces will dictate where players will end up.


      If RA wants to retain these players, then it should offer them remuneration in line with or better than what the French clubs can. The NZRFU should have offered Aki, Lowe, or Fergus Burke a higher salary than what was offered by the likes of Irish Rugby, Sacarens, etc., if it wanted to retain them.


      These kids going to France and the aforementioned Kiwi players are attempting to build a career and financial security in a career that can end with one injury. Think about that—one bad injury, and your career is over, so just like anyone, they have to make the smart, informed decision that is right for them and their families.


      If the likes of Oz and NZ can’t or are not prepared to match the $$$, so be it - this is the reality of professional rugby, and whilst it turns the international game into a glorified club comp, I’m not sure if there is any solution.


      And let’s remember it’s not all negative. This movement of players from Nth to South gives kids like Blair Murray or Taine Plumtree the ability to earn good $$ and experience international rugby, when let’s face it, they would at best be on the fringes of a Super Rugby squad - so it’s not all bad!

      3 Go to comments
      G
      GabrielArthur 2 hours ago
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      7 Go to comments
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