Cameron Smith Slams NRL’s ‘Absurd’ Approach Following Spencer Leniu and Johnathan Thurston Controversy

League legend Cameron Smith has expressed his belief that Spencer Leniu could have approached his confrontation with Johnathan Thurston in a more constructive manner following an altercation during and after the Roosters’ match.

Leniu unleashed a passionate outburst at Thurston on the field as the repercussions of the Ezra Mam incident in Las Vegas continue to unfold.

After the incident, the Roosters prop took to social media, stating he had no desire to speak with Thurston. In contrast, Thurston released a statement labelling Leniu as “overly aggressive”.

While Smith refrained from commenting on the differing perspectives of the two players, he did express dissatisfaction with Leniu’s handling of the situation.

“I do take issue with the manner in which Spencer addressed it and how he went about it. I don’t believe it was appropriate to confront someone during a match or immediately after in front of a stadium full of fans. There were 40,000 spectators that night, including children who idolise these players, as well as millions watching on television. I think Spencer got it wrong,” he commented.

“Such matters should have been kept private, resolved behind closed doors between JT and Spencer Leniu.”

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Smith also voiced his criticism of the NRL for failing to intervene, noting that no action will be taken unless a formal complaint is filed.

“What direction are we heading in as a sport if we permit this sort of behaviour? Is it now just a free-for-all?” he queried.

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“If people have a problem with one another, does that mean we can verbally attack them? Can we throw around expletives? If I’m commentating a game and I find a current player’s behaviour upsetting, am I allowed to confront them and hurl insults?”

“No, of course not. That’s just absurd.”