NRL News Roundup: Breach Notices, Relationship Claims, Injuries & Origin 'Smokeys'

Isaiah Iongi Receives NRL Breach Notice

The National Rugby League (NRL) has issued a breach notice to Parramatta Eels player Isaiah Iongi, citing a breach of the NRL Code of Conduct for "bringing the game into disrepute." This action follows an NRL Integrity Unit investigation into photos that circulated on social media in late February.

The images reportedly show Iongi appearing to smoke a substance, with an unidentified substance visible in what appeared to be a blue herb grinder. Another image depicted Iongi in a bathtub, seemingly about to light a rolled cigarette. The date the photos were taken is not known.

Iongi has been given five business days to respond to the breach notice. It is understood that he is expected to receive a suspended one-game suspension.

Manly Captain Addresses Relationship Claims with Cherry-Evans

Manly skipper Tom Trbojevic has addressed claims regarding a deterioration in his relationship with former teammate Daly Cherry-Evans. Ahead of Cherry-Evans' return to Brookvale with the Sydney Roosters, Trbojevic stated, "We're good mates, I've got a great relationship with Chez."

Trbojevic, who took over the captaincy after Cherry-Evans' departure, indicated that he would speak to Cherry-Evans after their upcoming game. He also suggested that Manly fans should cheer Cherry-Evans, acknowledging his significant contributions to the club over 350 games.

Trbojevic suggested Manly fans should cheer Cherry-Evans, acknowledging his significant contributions to the club over 350 games.

Eels Forward J'maine Hopgood Sustains Injury, Expresses No Ill Will

Parramatta forward J'maine Hopgood has sustained a suspected ACL tear following a hip-drop tackle by Dragons second rower Ryan Couchman. Hopgood is scheduled for scans to confirm the extent of the injury.

Despite the potential season-ending injury, Hopgood stated he has "no hard feelings" towards Couchman, who apologized after the game. Hopgood commented that while he believes Couchman did not intend harm, such tackles are illegal for a reason. Couchman was sin-binned and placed on report for the tackle.

Hopgood stated he has "no hard feelings" towards Couchman, who apologized after the game, despite the potential season-ending injury.

Brian To'o Declared Greatest Winger by Denan Kemp

Former rugby league player Denan Kemp has declared Penrith Panthers star Brian To'o the greatest winger in rugby league history. Kemp cited To'o's achievements, including four premiership wins, two Dally M Winger of the Year awards, and two Brad Fittler Medals.

Kemp highlighted To'o's consistent performance, particularly his high post-contact meters, describing him as a "front rower on the wing" who also demonstrates exceptional try-scoring abilities. He believes To'o's overall package surpasses that of previous greats, despite only being 27 years old.

Denan Kemp believes Brian To'o's consistent performance, high post-contact meters, and try-scoring abilities, combined with his multiple accolades, make him the greatest winger in rugby league history.

Former Blues Identify Thomas Jenkins as Origin 'Smokey'

Former NSW Blues representatives Paul Gallen and Mark Geyer have identified Penrith Panthers winger Thomas Jenkins as a potential 'smokey' for State of Origin selection. Jenkins has scored eight tries in three matches this season, including four in a recent game against the Roosters.

Gallen acknowledged Jenkins' strong club form, stating it is crucial for Origin consideration, though he noted a few players are currently ahead in the pecking order. Geyer praised Jenkins' try-scoring ability and commitment. Jenkins' current form follows an early release from the Knights in 2024 and a return to first-grade football after playing in lower-tier competitions.

Jenkins' current form, including eight tries in three matches, has led former NSW Blues representatives Paul Gallen and Mark Geyer to identify him as a potential State of Origin 'smokey'.