NRL: Bulldogs ordered to investigate allegations of verbal abuse

A female television journalist was subjected to verbal abuse from players at the club's mad Monday celebrations. Photo / Getty Images

Australian Rugby League Commission chairman John Grant has ordered Canterbury to investigate allegations that a female television journalist was subjected to verbal abuse from players at the club's mad Monday celebrations.

The unidentified players were recorded shouting from a room inside Belmore Oval as the team assembled for the post-season celebrations 24 hours after their grand final loss to Melbourne.

A cameraman was allegedly also told to f*** off by a member of the Bulldogs' back-room staff as he tried to film players arriving in fancy dress on Monday.

Grant said he was taking the issue seriously and ordered a full investigation by the club to ascertain what happened.

"I've not seen the report, but based on what I've heard there's no doubt that this is potentially a serious issue," Grant said. He stopped short of calling for the players to be sacked by the club but said he was eager to find out the full story from Bulldogs chief executive Todd Greenberg.

"I think we have to wait until we find out all the facts from the club and we'll then work with them and their recommendations," Grant said.

"But based on my understanding of what's going on, it's serious."

The incident is another blot on a wretched week for the club, which faces losing prop James Graham for a lengthy ban after he allegedly bit the ear of Storm fullback Billy Slater.

The England international was referred straight to the NRL judiciary on Monday and will face the three-man panel tomorrow.

The club could also face a fine from the NRL for refusing to allow media access to their sheds after Sunday's game.

- AAP