NRL: Meninga hit by defamation claim

Queensland coach Mal Meninga is in hot-water after refusing to apologise after he attacked a variety of unnamed NSW figures. Photo / Getty Images

The NRL's Match Review Committee will initiate defamation proceedings against Mal Meninga and Queensland Newspapers over the Queensland coach's comments in his newspaper column last Sunday.

Meninga was given until 5pm (AEST) on Thursday to issue an apology after he attacked a variety of unnamed NSW figures and suggested the committee was part of a conspiracy against the Maroons after Johnathan Thurston and David Taylor were made to appear before them during the State of Origin series.

But after the 51-year-old refused to back down from his comments, the decision to take action was instigated late on Friday afternoon.

"A statement of claim has been filed with the Supreme Court of NSW on behalf of the Committee after attempts to find an alternative resolution proved unsuccessful this week," a statement released by the NRL read.

"The NRL will support the Match Review Committee's proceedings at least until such time as the offending statements made in relation to them are withdrawn and an apology is issued."

The decision taken by committee members Greg McCallum, Bradley Clyde and Peter Louis was backed by NRL chief executive David Gallop.

"The statements in the article were seriously offensive to individuals who carry out important roles for the game with absolute integrity," Gallop said.

"This has nothing to do with interstate rivalry or a person's right to challenge a decision but it has everything to do with the fact that there are laws against falsely attacking a person's good name and reputation.

"Had it involved an NRL coach it would certainly have resulted in a substantial fine which may have in some way lessened the need for independent legal action from the parties involved.

"In any case it remains our responsibility to assist in protecting those people who carry out important roles for the game from baseless allegations of bias or corruption.

"The members of the Match Review Committee are entitled to defend themselves in such a situation and are entitled to expect that the game will offer them support in the process."

- AAP