Jack de Belin declines NRL invitation to stand down while facing criminal charges

Drew Darbyshire

St George Illawarra star Jack de Belin has declined an invitation by the NRL to step away from playing as he faces ongoing sexual assault charges.

De Belin and Dragons officials met NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg on Wednesday to discuss potential implications of his ongoing court case.

It’s reported that the Dragons are concerned about de Belin’s welfare as he faces sexual assault allegations in court, but they believe it is his best interest to continue playing while the case continues.

According to NRL.com, the NRL asked de Belin if he would like to volunteer to stand down from playing when they met, but the New South Wales representative didn’t take up the offer.

De Belin has not been picked to play against South Sydney Rabbitohs in this weekend’s Charity Shield clash.