The NRL has issued Gold Coast Titans coach Des Hasler a “final” warning after he singled out a Bunker official for criticism following his side’s defeat last weekend.
Hasler took aim at the refereeing after a 28-16 loss to the Melbourne Storm on Saturday night and was particularly unhappy with a no-try call against Sam Verrills after a video review in the second half.
The coach detailed communications he had with the NRL when discussing the controversial obstruction decision in the post-match press conference, before taking aim directly at Bunker official Kasey Badger.
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Bunker denies Verrills in key moment | 00:47
“Who was in the Bunker?,” Hasler asked before being told by a reporter it was Badger. “Kasey got it wrong, again.”
Hasler also commented on the decision: “There’s been a few like that. I thought it was the wrong decision.”
The NRL on Thursday issued a statement saying the final warning “relates to comments made by Mr Hasler following Round 13 of the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership, as well as previous public statements regarding officiating.”
“Mr Hasler has been reminded of his obligations under the NRL Rules and Code of Conduct as well as his general responsibility as a sporting leader.
Negative public remarks about Match Officials significantly hinder the recruitment and retention of Match Officials at the community and pathways tiers of the game.
All Rugby League participants are reminded to respect Match Officials who perform a vital role within the game.”
Hasler has previously attracted fines for criticising referees in previous coaching stints with Manly and Canterbury.
The Titans face Brisbane in a Queensland derby at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
