In an unprecedented move, Queensland Maroons forward Josh Kerr has been slapped with a staggering $10 million fine after labeling State of Origin referee Ashley Klein a “double agent” following the Maroons’ Game 3 victory.
The comment, made during post-match interviews, has sparked outrage within the NRL community. Kerr accused Klein of biased officiating, implying favoritism toward New South Wales during the fiercely contested Origin decider.
> “It felt like we were playing against 14 out there. The ref looked like a double agent,” Kerr said — remarks that rapidly went viral.
While players have been fined in the past for criticising officials, the $10 million penalty is the largest in rugby league history, signaling a dramatic crackdown by the NRL on public dissent and attacks on officiating integrity.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo called the fine “a necessary deterrent.”
> “The integrity of our officials must be protected. These comments crossed a line. Free speech doesn’t mean free of consequences.”
The Queensland Rugby League is reportedly seeking legal advice on how to respond, while Kerr has vowed to contest the fine, stating:
> “I stand by what I said, even if it costs me. Ten million? That’s just insane.”
Fans are divided — some praising Kerr’s honesty, others criticizing the outburst as unprofessional.
