What is a contract in sport worth? A player was contracted for three years to the UK Super League club Castleford Tigers. He had a good first year and wanted an improved contract. The club was happy to do that but were not prepared to meet the four-fold increase he wanted. He then wanted to move on but was told he was obliged to meet the conditions of his contract.
A rugby union team, the Sale Sharks expressed interest in the player but were repeatedly told he wasn't for sale. Eventually an offer of a paltry £50,000 was made, again declined. The player then 'retired' from rugby league and took up playing rugby union, a cynical move to avoid the obligation of a contract.
The Director of Rugby at Sale said he felt they had done nothing wrong so the Tigers had no option but litigation if they wanted compensation. However, before it got to court Sale decided to settle, to the tune of something over £200,000 and costs in the vicinity of £100,000. Not a bad settlement.
Players do switch codes but by mutual agreement or when contracts have expired. If neither is the case, then what one has agreed to should be honoured. Once a man's word was his bond. Now a man's signature isn't necessarily worth the paper it's written on. Thankfully the latter at least still has some value.
For a statement from Castleford Tigers, simply click here.
Picture source: Castleford Tigers.
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