Former first grade forward Jimmy Smith has called for under siege Canberra coach Ricky Stuart to be suspended for the rest of the season and fined $100,000 for his post-match comments regarding Penrith Panthers player Jaeman Salmon.
Writing on the sen.com.au website, Smith went further, demanding the NRL stand him down for a full 12 months if he breaks the rules of the proposed suspension.
“In the history of the game, I have never heard a player questioned by an opposition coach in such a fashion,” Smith wrote.
“The comment Stuart made; that Panthers player Jaemon Salmon was “a weak gutted dog as a kid, and he hasn’t changed, he’s a weak gutted dog person now” will surely see a heavy sanction from the NRL. And rightfully so.
“My thoughts? Suspend Ricky Stuart from now until the end of the regular season. Fine him $100,000 with none of that amount suspended. Do not allow him to attend training. Do not allow him contact with staff or players.”
