NSWRL Statement: Des Hasler

New South Wales Rugby League CEO Dave Trodden has expressed disappointment at post-match comments this afternoon by Bulldogs Coach Des Hasler in which he questioned the integrity of the experienced and well-credentialed medical staff of the NSW VB Blues.

The comments came after Bulldogs centre Josh Morris was recalled to the Blues team this morning after Josh Dugan stood down because he aggravated an elbow injury. In doing so, Morris had to withdraw from the Bulldogs clash with the Raiders in Canberra this afternoon.

"There appears to be a little bit of confusion on the part of the Bulldogs as to the circumstances behind what happened to Josh Dugan," Trodden said.

"The difficulty that caused him to be ruled out of Game One this Wednesday didn't manifest itself until this morning and was communicated to them as soon as it became apparent to us.

"We totally understand why Canterbury would be upset about their plans being thrown into disarray because of the late withdrawal of Josh Morris, but when they reflect on the comments made about the professionalism of the NSW medical staff, they may think those comments are unjustified.

"These comments are about people who are leaders in their profession and who have been involved in Rugby League for many, many years and don't deserve to have their professional standards questioned."