The Indian Panthers, who have endured a disastrous start to their inaugural season in the NBL, have been suspended for the rest of the season.
The south Auckland-based Panthers, accused of not paying their players and staff, defaulted a recent game against the Canterbury Rams, a no-show which forced the NBL commission to act.
Players told 1News yesterday of their disappointment at their treatment, with one saying some imports were relying on food banks to get by.
The NBL this afternoon released a statement which confirmed the Panthers' suspension until either:
1. The satisfaction of conditions outlined by the Commission being met by the Panthers, or;
2. A final determination by the Commission of an investigation into the alleged breaches of the Participation Agreement by the Panthers.
"As there is an ongoing investigation, the details of the conditions and matters being considered are confidential at this stage, but the allegations are sufficiently serious, and the evidence is such, that the Commission has decided to suspend the Panthers participation in the League indefinitely, and effective immediately," the statement read.
Commission chair Tracey Garland said: “It is very disappointing for the Commission to be facing this situation especially given that following careful due diligence, the original concept was sustainable and so exciting for the League, the game and the fans, both here and in India.
“However, we have had to face the reality that things have not panned out as any party intended. The Commission is particularly concerned that all the positive growth and progress that has been made with the Sal’s NBL is not put at risk while we consider the very significant implications of what is before us with the Panthers’ situation.
American Alex Robinson has left the team that defaulted its recent NBL game against the Canterbury Rams after claiming he wasn't paid. (Source: 1News)
“An investigation has commenced. The Panthers are fully aware of the conditions they must meet for any consideration given as to their future participation, and these will remain confidential while both parties work through this. At the same time, the League has commenced an investigation into the alleged breaches.
“We have been advised by the Panthers today that all players have been paid, including former player Alex Robinson, and that staff and other creditors will be paid by May 15. We hope all of these payments will be made as communicated to us.
“In particular, we want the players and staff of the Panthers to know we are treating the alleged breaches seriously, and their interests and the integrity of the competition is our highest priority.”
The NBL would not go into any further detail due to the investigation, it said.
SHARE ME