League: Warriors in salary cap probe

The National Rugby League (NRL) is investigating possible salary cap breaches involving the New Zealand Warriors.

The Warriors board said today it was working closely with the NRL on a full investigation into squad player payments, after a number of potential salary cap discrepancies were uncovered.

Club chairman Maurice Kidd said the investigation related to some player payments and arrangements negotiated prior to the appointment of the new management team.

"We are in the process of clarifying the extent and current status of these arrangements and what obligations they may place on the club for the 2006 season and beyond, as well as any possible impact on the salary cap," Kidd said in a statement.

The NRL confirmed the investigation and said the current Warriors management was offering full co-operation.

"They are to be commended for their attitude to date but any breach of the cap remains a serious matter," NRL chief executive David Gallop said.

- NZPA