The NRL has opted for leniency after Wests Tigers players used a hand gesture known as 'the khawd' during their victory over Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, sparking debate over its offensiveness. Three players received formal warnings on Wednesday, with the league acknowledging the gesture 'caused, or had the potential to cause, offence to members of the NRL community'.
The gesture, which some Lebanese-Australian communities interpret as 'go and get fucked', was displayed by backrower Samuela Fainu after scoring a try, with teammates joining in. The Bulldogs, whose fanbase includes a significant number of Lebanese-Australians, expressed displeasure to the NRL, leading to an investigation. Former Tigers hooker Ben Elias described the gesture as 'an ugly sign of hatred' that should be removed from the game.
However, opinions vary within the Lebanese-Australian community. Bulldogs player Jacob Kiraz, of Lebanese heritage, has used the khawd in a friendly context. A Bulldogs podcast host, Elmo, said the gesture can be harmless banter between mates but acknowledged it can escalate when used maliciously. He believes the controversy has been blown out of proportion, comparing it to giving fans the finger.
Wests Tigers back Brent Naden faces a separate breach notice for posting a video of himself using the gesture after the match while saying 'fucking dogs'. He and the club have five days to respond, with a fine expected. The incident has highlighted cultural sensitivities in the NRL, with chief executive Andrew Abdo admitting he had to 'learn up' about the gesture.
