Johns, Lewis surprised at NRL Immortals voting snub
Ron Coote has been announced as the latest member of the NRL’s Immortals club, but the process has left a sour taste in the mouths of some other rugby league legends.
Until Coote’s induction, just three of the 13-man group were alive — but none of them were consulted about who should be the 14th member.
Wally Lewis, Mal Meninga and Andrew Johns have each spoken out about the snub.
“I would have thought the three Immortals who are still alive would have got a phone call,” said Johns.
“It would have been nice to be involved, but we weren’t asked,” added Meninga.
“It will always be something that is subjective anyway. But we weren’t needed.
“I can’t comment on this year’s Immortal because I never got the chance to vote.”
Lewis also shared that he harbours no ill-feelings but had expected to be involved.
“I’m not upset. I’m just a bit surprised. I have voted previously,” he said.
NRL explains decision to omit Immortal members
Following the snub of the living Immortal members, a spokesperson from the NRL explained why the three were excluded.
“The Hall of Fame Committee was a new process that consolidated all major aspects of the Hall of Fame properties, including both the Hall of Fame and the Immortals for the first time,” the spokesperson explained.
“It included 14 people who represent media, historians and administrators, all of whom have extensive experience in the game.”
Another surprising omission was commentator Ray Warren, who has been involved with rugby league at the highest level for more than half a century.
NRL finals race heats up in round 25
The NRL community will not have much time to dwell on the Immortals controversy, however, as an important weekend of action awaits.
The Wests Tigers host the Manly Sea Eagles on Thursday evening, and NRL bookies have the bottom side at long odds of $5 to spring an upset.
On Friday, the Bulldogs ($1.55) will head to New Zealand as they look to keep their top-four hopes alive with a win over the Warriors ($2.45).
A day later, the Storm ($1.18) will be eager to lock up the minor premiership when they face the Dolphins ($4.85), who are scrambling to make the top eight.