ARL Commission chairman Peter Beattie and NRL CEO Todd Greenberg have announced there has been unanimous agreement from the Commission that there will be a "no-fault stand down" for players who are charged with serious criminal offences.
Beattie and Greenberg addressed the media at Rugby League Central to announce the outcome of Thursday morning's annual general meeting.
Greenberg said Dragons forward Jack de Belin, who is facing sexual assault allegations, would be the first player stood down under the new policy and the CEO stressed it was not a judgement on his guilt or innocence. De Belin has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
"He'll be stood down under the no fault policy. He cannot play until the completion of that case," Greenberg said.
"This policy ensures he doesn't play but he can be around the team, be at training during the week and most importantly can take the services of that club via the welfare and services available to him. We think it's important for the club and player to have the opportunity to continue in the environment."
The chairman said the ARL was setting a benchmark for all players to protect rugby league.
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Topic: ARL Commission announces 'no-fault stand down policy' for players facing serious charges
