Seven Manly Sea Eagles players to boycott NRL match against Sydney Roosters over Pride jersey

Manly Sea Eagles, the Sydney-based rugby league team, are facing a revolt from players who are refusing to wear a rainbow-themed Pride jersey celebrating inclusivity for their game against Sydney Roosters on Thursday.

The Daily Telegraph based in Sydney reported that seven players have said they will boycott the NRL game due to their religious beliefs about homosexuality, while Des Hasler, the coach, was said to have been supportive of their decision not to play.

Ian Roberts, the club’s former forward, who became the first rugby league player to come out as gay in 1995, described his disappointment at the episode.

“I try to see it from all perspectives but this breaks my heart,” Roberts said. “It’s sad and uncomfortable. As an older gay man,