Manly pride jersey sells out despite NRL match boycott by some players

Manly’s inclusivity jersey has sold out online within 24 hours as the Sea Eagles face the prospect of several players boycotting a match over its design.

Manly are expected to confirm on Tuesday that up to seven players will miss Thursday’s match with the Sydney Roosters, opting not to play in the jersey.

The issue could not have come at a worse time for Manly or coach Des Hasler, with the two teams either side of the top-eight dividing line.

The Sea Eagles announced on Sunday night they would wear a rainbow design for the match.

By Monday night, the jersey had sold out on the club’s online store in all men’s and women’s sizes, with only junior versions of the strip available.

But the design has not proven as popular with members of the team.

The decision to wear the jersey has caused unrest among several players, who also claim they only learned of the strip on social media on Sunday night and were not previously consulted.

Some players have cited questions that will arise within their culture or religion from wearing the jersey.

The issue prompted a lengthy meeting of Sea Eagles management on Monday night, where it was again requested that players wear the “Everyone in League” design.

However players have not agreed to do so, and up to seven are expected to sit out the match against the Roosters.

Ian Roberts, who became the first rugby league player to come out as gay while playing for Manly in 1995, said the player revolt “breaks my heart”.

The former Kangaroo and Sea Eagles star told Sydney’s Daily Telegraph: “It’s sad and uncomfortable. As an older gay man, this isn’t unfamiliar. I did wonder whether there would be any religious pushback. That’s why I think the NRL have never had a Pride round.

“I can promise you