Dylan Walker has been cleared to return playing for Manly Sea Eagles, effective immediately, by the NRL after he was stood down by the “no-fault stand-down” policy.
Walker was acquitted of assault charges while the case was reviewed by the NRL Integrity Unit.
Greenberg says the policy has now expired for Walker and that the case has successfully demonstrated how the policy rule can protect the reputation of the game.
“We always said that we make no judgement on the guilt or innocence of any player stood down under this rule,” he said.
“That is a matter for the courts and, in this case, Dylan has been acquitted of the charges and is free to return to the game.
“We thank the Manly club for its support of the new rule and wish Dylan the best for the rest of the season.
“It is clear the no-fault stand-down rule enables us to protect the reputation of the game while charges are heard – so it is doing its job.”
Greenberg said the rule would only be used where players were charged with serious offences.
“We hope to use it very sparingly – only for the most serious cases – but we believe it is already proving successful in protecting the reputation of the game,” he said.
