The NRL has issued a formal warning to three Wests Tigers players after they used a hand gesture known as 'the khawd' during Sunday's match against Canterbury-Bankstown. The gesture, which can be interpreted as offensive to some Lebanese-Australian communities, was made by backrower Samuela Fainu after scoring a try and was quickly mimicked by teammates.
The controversy has divided opinion, with some calling it an 'ugly sign of hatred' while others dismiss it as 'just a bit of banter'. Lebanese-Australian former Tigers hooker Ben Elias condemned the act, saying it should be removed from the game. However, Bulldogs player Jacob Kiraz, of Lebanese descent, has been pictured using the same gesture in a friendly manner.
Bulldogs fans in the stands took offence, and the club expressed displeasure to the NRL. The league acknowledged the gesture caused or had the potential to cause offence. Tigers back Brent Naden faces a breach notice and likely fine for sharing a video of himself using the gesture after the match, accompanied by offensive language.
The penalty is relatively light compared to other recent sanctions, such as the $50,000 fine and suspension handed to Penrith Panthers for interference. Naden and the club have five days to respond to the breach notice.
