Hardaker hit by fine from Leeds over Cup departure

TROUBLED Zak Hardaker has been fined and given a written warning by Leeds Rhinos for the incidents that led to his exit from England’s World Cup squad.
By Dave Craven
Published 7th Nov 2013, 08:10 BST
Zak HardakerZak Hardaker
Zak Hardaker

The full-back, 22, withdrew from Steve McNamara’s group on Monday citing “personal issues”.

The England coach has steadfastly refused to elaborate on the reasons.

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However, Leeds made a statement last night which firmly placed the blame at Hardaker’s door.

The player – who is understood to have been involved in trouble when on a day off from camp last week after also allegedly breaking an earlier alcohol ban – apologised for his behaviour too.

Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington said: “(Coach) Brian McDermott and myself have now had the opportunity to discuss the matter with the England management and with Zak himself.

“We now have a better understanding of the events leading up to Zak’s departure from the England squad.

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“We believe Zak acted unprofessionally and in doing so, breached the Leeds Rhinos player code of conduct.

“As a result, the club have issued him with a written warning and imposed a fine of £2,500.

“We are satisfied the matter has now been dealt with and Zak will report for training on November 25.

“We will continue to monitor Zak’s future conduct and help him deal with his own issues; which are more to do with a lack of professionalism than anything else.

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“Zak has apologised for the embarrassment caused to his family and Leeds Rhinos and he is desperately sorry for the situation he finds himself in.”

Ex-Featherstone Rovers player Hardaker said: “I have paid a heavy price for my own actions and will now miss out on my dream of helping England win the World Cup.

“I am sorry for any embarrassment I have caused and my focus now is on moving forward next season and putting these events behind me.

“I would like to wish Kevin (Sinfield) and the England team the best of luck for the rest of the tournament and I’m looking forward to the start of pre-season with the Rhinos.”

The development , however, will further alert Wigan Warriors who are known to be keen on securing the services of the 2012 Super League Young Player of the Year if he becomes available.

Related topics:Zak HardakerEnglandLeedsLeeds RhinosBrian McDermott