Cowboys vague on Jason Taumalolo vaccination status, questions about exemption unanswered

The North Queensland Cowboys say their entire 30-man squad is ready to play in round one of the 2022 NRL season next month but have stopped short of confirming whether $10-million-dollar-man Jason Taumalolo has been vaccinated.

The NRL has not mandated COVID-19 vaccinations for players and has instead left clubs to navigate the issue on their own.

Captain and lock Taumalolo, 28, was the last remaining unvaccinated player, ahead of the Cowboys home game on Sunday, March 13.

In a press conference held in Townsville, Cowboys coach, Todd Payten, attempted to clear up speculation about Taumalolo's vaccination status, but his vague terminology left more questions than answers.

«Look, I, can categorically say that we are compliant as a club for vaccinations,» Payten said.

«We are compliant to the NRL protocols and the government health orders.

»I'm excited to choose from a full squad given that they are fit and ready to go from a physical standpoint."

When Payten was asked to clarify if that meant all 30 players would be eligible to play and were fully compliant with COVID-19 protocols, he replied he could «pick them tomorrow.»

The Cowboys round one opponent, the Bulldogs, have taken a hardline stance on vaccination, leading to the departure of utility, John Asiata.

The Cowboys would not respond to questions from the ABC to specify whether all players were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or whether any had received a medical exemption.

The NRL said it was up to clubs to comment on any specific individual cases. 

While COVID vaccinations among NRL players have not been made compulsory, it is mandatory for persons over the age of 16 who are entering a Stadiums Queensland venue such as the Cowboys home ground in Townsville.

«In accordance