Manly apologise for mishandling pride jersey initiative as players boycott NRL match

• Little consultation or collaboration,' says coach Des Hasler
• Rainbow jerseys will be worn in absence of several players

Manly coach Des Hasler has apologised on behalf of the club for the poor" execution in unveiling a pride jersey as part of an inclusivity initiative which has resulted in a boycott of seven players.

The day after news broke that almost half the Sea Eagles team said they would not play in Thursday night's clash against the Roosters, Hasler fronted the media and confirmed religious and cultural differences were behind the stance.