The Sea Eagles have reportedly initiated a formal investigation into the Titans following Des Hasler’s contentious departure from Manly.
According to The Daily Telegraph, the Sea Eagles have subpoenaed the Titans to provide phone records, emails, and text messages related to their interactions with Hasler. Manly’s leadership is keen to determine if Titans’ executives were aware of Hasler’s intention to take legal action against the Sea Eagles. Additionally, they seek to verify if there was any communication between Hasler and the Titans while he was still under contract at Brookvale.
Hasler’s contract with the Sea Eagles was terminated on October 13, 2022, after a tumultuous season filled with speculation about his job security. His unexpected three-year deal with the Titans, announced in June 2023, surprised many in the rugby league community.
Following his dismissal from Manly, Hasler initiated legal proceedings against the club, with the case set to be revisited in the NSW Supreme Court on June 7. The Sea Eagles had offered Hasler a $565,000 severance package, which he rejected, seeking a compensation amount in the seven figures instead.
Despite mediation attempts between Hasler and Manly officials, no agreement has been reached, with the controversial rainbow jersey issue remaining a significant sticking point.