NRL chief executive David Gallop has stood by the decision to fine Paul Gallen A$10,000 ($12,807), despite the under-fire Sharks captain not being given a chance to defend himself against allegations that he made a racial slur.
Gallen was slapped with the fine on Monday over allegations he called St George Illawarra forward Mickey Paea a "black ****" in Saturday night's 26-4 win to the Dragons.
Paea declined to make an official on-field complaint and the pair reconciled after the game, but the NRL still opted to fine Gallen for a breach of the NRL player code of conduct.
The test and NSW star's manager David Riolo said due process should have at least allowed his client the opportunity to state his case before the fine was issued, but Gallop said Gallen's apology was proof enough of the transgression.
- AAP
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.
Latest from NRL
Kiwi NRL hopeful launches $4 million lawsuit against club
Jackson Topine alleges 'unlawful corporal punishment' by the club.