WHY RALPH MARTIN HAS NOT PLAYED LEAGUE THIS YEAR

Auckland Star, Volume LXXVI, Issue 99, 28 April 1945, Page 16

WHY RALPH MARTIN HAS NOT PLAYED LEAGUE THIS YEAR

Followers of the league code are debating why R. Martin, the Auckland representative full-back has not yet appeared for Manukau, the club he has played for during the past two season. The facts are that Martin applied for a transfer to Otahuhu early this year and as it was refused by the Manukau club, he has been a spectator since the season opened three weeks ago.

In support of his claim for a transfer from Manukau, Martin said he originally came from the Otahuhu club, where he played in the junior grades. For that reason, he claimed, the Manukau club should now release him. According to the Rugby League transfer rule, Martin' is tied to the Manukau club, and it is doubtful if an appeal (the player's: right) to the Board of Control, would get him to Otahuhu. He must, according to the transfer rule, stand down for a complete year, before his claim can be made effective. That means he cannot play, in that time, any code of football. ' • ••» •

It is reported that it is Martin's intention to play rugby for M. N. Paewai's new Aotea club should another appeal for his • transfer to Otahuhu be refused.

Since Martin was associated with Manukau he has stood out as the most brilliant full-back the code has had over a number of years.