BESIEGED Wests Tigers star Tim Simona is receiving continued support from teammates who remain concerned for his “wellbeing” — especially if banned from the game forever.
Several Tigers players, including fellow flyer Kevin Naiqama, are keeping close tabs on the 25-year-old who effectively stands accused of betting against them.
It is understood the Samoan international, who will receive a life ban if found guilty, has until Friday to lodge his defence with the NRL Integrity Unit.
Yet speaking after training on Tuesday, Naiqama stressed he would continue to support Simona no matter the investigation outcome: “My only concern right now is his wellbeing”.
In 2013, young Tigers forward Mosese Fotuaika tragically took his own life after being injured at training while, as recently as last November, the joint-venture club was forced to defend its culture against claims of bullying and intimidation.
“This situation is a really hard one because Tim’s a good mate,’’ Naiqama said. “So for me, the most important thing is his wellbeing.
“At the end of the day, there’s a human being involved in all of this. And what people are saying and writing, it does affect him.
“The last thing you want is someone doing something to themselves. So as a friend, all I can do is be there and support him.
“Even if he is found to have done something wrong, I will always be there for him.”
Asked how Simona was doing, Naiqama continued: “He’s doing OK.
“I’ve sent him some messages and he appreciates that. He’s my friend and right now he just needs support.”
With Simona suspended, Tigers coach Jason Taylor is being tipped to call on rising teenager Moses Suli — who recently inked a three-year deal with the club worth a reported $1.3 million.
The 18-year-old tips the scales at 106kg and has made a huge impression on his teammates over summer.
While Jordan Rankin and David Nofoaluma were named as the Tigers’ starting wingers, Suli could still be called in given he was named in jersey No. 21.
“He’s really powerful,” Tigers forward Elijah Taylor said. “Strong, fast, great feet and really humble.
“I’ve only seen him play a couple of trials but he went really well.
“I think like everyone else, I’m really excited to see how he goes. I’m not sure when he will be used but, if he comes in, he definitely won’t let anyone down.”
Naiqama agreed, adding: “I didn’t know anything about him before pre-season.
“But he’s definitely a big kid, especially considering his age. Real strong, too.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on him but he’s definitely looked comfortable during the pre-season. I’m excited to see how he goes if he gets a crack.”
The NRL first launched its investigation into Simona late last year, when a social media post accused the Tigers winger of betting on rugby league matches. NRL CEO Todd Greenberg has repeatedly stated any player found guilty of betting on matches would be banned for life.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/tigers/wests-tigers-teammates-concerned-for-wellbeing-of-tim-simona/news-story/abe30c75243ee131594bf1548a9d90d7
