NRL – North Qld Cowboys skipper Johnathon Thurston (pictured) has returned to pre – season training and delivered a blast to the NRL over the state of the 2016 season draw.
Thurston took aim at the NRL and broadcast partners Channel Nine and Fox Sports for failing to consult with the Rugby League Players association on the 2016 schedule which was released on Friday.
Thurston and Players Association president Clint Newton have repeatedly called for a reduction in the number of five day turnarounds in the past but within the 20 rounds of next season that have so far been released, there have been no reduction in the short turnarounds.
With player fatigue and burnout only expected to increase in the future, Thurston has reportedly accused the NRL of disrespecting players and walking over the Players Association.
Newton will meet with the NRL on Tuesday to discuss the issue with industrial action a very real possibility if players demands aren’t met.