St George Illawarra coach Paul McGregor has urged caution over the Jack de Belin situation, with D-Day rapidly approaching in the form of an ARL Commission meeting this week.
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The centre of rugby league attention since he was charged with aggravated sexual assault last December, de Belin didn't play in the Dragons' 18-10 NRL trial win over Newcastle on Saturday due to a virus.
A decision on his immediate playing future will likely be made on Thursday by the ARLC, who are considering whether to change the game's policy and stand players down while serious matters are still before the courts.
De Belin has pleaded not guilty to the charge with the Dragons so far opting against standing him down, but the matter has the potential to drag on long term with his next court appearance only a mention in April.
"I recognise the significance and importance surrounding the current proceedings regarding Jack de Belin and the allegations against him," McGregor said.
"There is a judicial process underway to establish a resolution to this allegation and dispute.
"Jack's welfare is our main concern and it is important that integrity and well being are considered.
"If history and the past decade has taught us anything in rugby league, it is to refrain from making assumptions prior to legal proceedings being concluded.
"My focus needs to be on all 35 players in our squad and starting the season well for everyone associated with the Dragons and as such, I'm not interested in adding anything further to the commentary on this matter."
Thursday's meeting shapes as a potential battle looms between the game's administrators and the players' union.
ARLC chairman Peter Beattie confirmed this week he was seeking legal advice on whether the NSW State of Origin forward and other off-field offenders could be stood down in such cases.
Beattie has also indicated he would have stood himself down if he was hypothetically involved in such a matter, and has been open on social media about how off-field behaviour is hurting the game.
But the Rugby League Players' Association boss Ian Prendergast has warned the game they can't be "judge, jury and executioner", a line backed by board member and de Belin's NSW teammate James Maloney.
The Dragons have also warned that any action taken by the club could have ramifications with the fairness of the judiciary process.
Australian Associated Press
