Luke Keary called Cameron Ciraldo's remarks on Bronson Xerri "damning," questioning the Bulldogs' decision not to extend his contract beyond 2027.
Luke Keary has described Cameron Ciraldo's comments on Bronson Xerri as "damning" while declaring something "doesn't add up" after reports the Bulldogs already told him he would not be extended beyond 2027.
Xerri was dropped from the Bulldogs' NRL team ahead of their 14-10 win against Canberra on Thursday night, with Ciraldo admitting at a media opportunity earlier this week that "preparation" was one reason behind the decision to axe the centre.
Xerri battled a groin complaint in the pre-season and while he lined up for the Bulldogs in the trials and Round 1 clash against the Dragons, Ciraldo said Enari Tuala made the most of his opportunity get extra reps on the right edge in the summer.
The Bulldogs coach also made it clear Xerri's reaction to the news of his demotion, with reports he was going to request an immediate release, was less than ideal.
"There's plenty of people in the NRL that have reactions that they regret and probably feel like they could have reacted better, and that happens nearly every day in an NRL club and Bronson might have had one of those moments," Ciraldo said.