The Canberra Raiders viral Ashes-style try celebration and the UK media have exposed a loophole in the Rugby League Players Association's controversial boycott as the NRL braces for State of Origin silence.
NRL players returned to media duties on Monday for the first time since announcing plans to introduce an interview blackout on game days as a negotiation tactic for the collective bargaining agreement.
It meant fans were denied the chance to hear from Raiders skipper Elliott Whitehead or any of the Raiders after they imitated the moment Jonny Bairstow's dismissal set the Ashes alight.