The North Queensland Cowboys say their entire 30-man squad is ready to play in round one of the 2022 NRL season next month but have stopped short of confirming whether $10-million-dollar-man Jason Taumalolo has been vaccinated.
The NRL has not mandated COVID-19 vaccinations for players and has instead left clubs to navigate the issue on their own.
Captain and lock Taumalolo, 28, was the last remaining unvaccinated player, ahead of the Cowboys home game on Sunday, March 13.
In a press conference held in Townsville, Cowboys coach, Todd Payten, attempted to clear up speculation about Taumalolo's vaccination status, but his vague terminology left more questions than answers.
"Look, I, can categorically say that we are compliant as a club for vaccinations," Payten said.
"We are compliant to the NRL protocols and the government health orders.
When Payten was asked to clarify if that meant all 30 players would be eligible to play and were fully compliant with COVID-19 protocols, he replied he could "pick them tomorrow."
The Cowboys round one opponent, the Bulldogs, have taken a hardline stance on vaccination, leading to the departure of utility, John Asiata.
The Cowboys would not respond to questions from the ABC to specify whether all players were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or whether any had received a medical exemption.
The NRL said it was up to clubs to comment on any specific individual cases.
While COVID vaccinations among NRL players have not been made compulsory, it is mandatory for persons over the age of 16 who are entering a Stadiums Queensland venue such as the Cowboys home ground in Townsville.
"In accordance with the Queensland Health Direction, anyone (over 16 years of age) attending an event with 5,000 patrons or more at a sporting stadium such as Queensland Country Bank Stadium must be fully vaccinated, unless they have a medical exemption," a Stadiums Queensland spokesperson said.
"All attendees are required to present proof of vaccination (or exemption) prior to entry."
Despite Jason Taumalolo's reluctance to get vaccinated, Todd Payten insists the captain is as committed to the club as ever.
"He has turned up every single day with a smile on his face," Payten said.
"From that regard, I'm really excited about how positive he has been."
Taumalolo is contracted with the Cowboys until the end of the 2027 season after he signed a 10-year deal in 2017, which is estimated to be worth $10 million.
