The bank statements show that Irvine paid out almost the exact amount to two Eels players, Hayne and Mossop, in a series of transactions from January 27 to March 16 of 2015. The money paid to Hayne was to an account named ‘Abdullah’ - in three instalments of $10,000 and then further payments of $5000 and $4000. However, the big winner was Mossop. Although the former England international turned out to be a giant flop - he played just three games for Parramatta in an injury-ravaged 2015 stint before returning to the Super League - Irvine paid ‘Mossop Management’ amounts of $15,000, $9600, $14,600 and $9600. Irvine even returned a payment of $5000 back to Green Options, ensuring the ledger between what he and the players were paid was almost square. Former Eels CEO Scott Seward avoided a conviction and jail time for his role in the affair, although it remains to be seen if Irvine is as fortunate. While the details of the salary cap scandal were laid bare two years ago, there is still no movement on the player agents involved. One of managers was involved in the last two salary cap scandals but continues to go about his business, making a mockery of the NRL’s inaction.

In a separate court action, former Parramatta chairman Roy Spagnolo is taking the leagues club to the Supreme Court over the cancellation of his membership. New Holmes for Valentine? Tigers target? Valentine Holmes. Credit:NRL Photos The mail about Wests Tigers making a play for Valentine Holmes is getting louder. It’s no secret that Holmes wants to play fullback and is frustrated about remaining on the wing at Cronulla. The Sharks re-signed Holmes until the end of next year, but that was on the understanding he would be the Sharks’ No.1. Corey Thompson is doing a good job at the back for the Tigers, but the club is keen for a superstar custodian and has the money to make it happen.

One thing is for sure - despite trialling in front of NFL clubs in 2016, Holmes has given up on his gridiron ambitions. “It would probably be a bit late now,” Holmes said. “I’m turning 23 and everyone knows how hard those guys train over there after growing up with the game as kids. If I were to have a crack at it, it would have been the time I went over for a trial.” Des still a drawcard for Foran If Trent Barrett was to leave Manly - and Des Hasler return in his place - there is no doubt that Kieran Foran would be looking to head back to Brookvale. By no means is Foran unhappy at Canterbury - or with coach Dean Pay - but the reason he signed there was to be coached by Hasler again. Hasler is currently taking on the Bulldogs in a Supreme Court battle which will determine whether he signed a legally binding contract extension. Barrett’s own future is clouded. Those close to the Sea Eagles coach have urged him to get out, fearing his reputation will diminish the longer he remains at the embattled club. There is a feeling he has been badly let down during the recent crises and doesn’t have the support required to turn around a 2-6 start to the season.

If Barrett were to leave, it would open the door for a possible homecoming for Hasler. The two-time premiership-winning coach may consider taking ‘unders’ to return if he is successful in his court battle, but he would still be an enormous cost at a time when the Penn family is attempting to stop the financial bleeding. A Hasler return could solve the club’s halves issues, as Foran would also be keen to reunite with Daly Cherry-Evans. By George - Burgess to act up Russell Crowe may soon not be the only Rabbitoh making it big in Hollywood, with George Burgess set to make his acting debut. Loading

Burgess is poised to play a strongarm called Ivan in Locusts, an action noir flick set in Broken Hill. The project is the brainchild of producer/writer Angus Watts and is directed by Heath Davis, the man behind the acclaimed rugby league film Broke. It’s described as a throwback to classic action films, with a bit of Max Max, No Country for Old Men and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly thrown in. “We needed a hulking figure and he fits the bill perfectly,” Davis said of the Souths prop. “We knew he’d been interested in pursuing an acting career seriously, so we tested him out and he’s great. He’s super passionate and dedicated. He’s also been getting some private acting lessons with one of our lead actors, who is loving working with him. Reckons he’s a natural. “He will share the screen with another elite sportsman in heavyweight champion Lucas Browne.” Croft's issue with Smith Brodie Croft’s form isn’t the only reason he is in reserve grade. The Melbourne playmaker had a falling out with Cameron Smith at around the time he was dropped. Smith unselfishly attempted to pass on tips to Croft, but it’s fair to say the youngster wasn’t overly receptive. Most other halfbacks would jump at the chance to learn from a future Immortal. He will need to improve his attitude as the man replacing him - Ryley Jacks - hasn’t lost a game since getting the call up.