SAD NEWS: Penrith Panthers star involved in domestic assault saga.
Taylan May, a prominent player for the Penrith Panthers, will contest claims of domestic abuse, claiming he struck his wife in the face and then pursued her.
On Tuesday, the 22-year-old NRL center made his initial court appearance and entered a not guilty plea to three counts linked to domestic violence.
May’s season is probably ended as a result of his suspension under the NRL’s no-fault stand-down policy until his legal matter is resolved; the next hearing is scheduled for March 2025.
According to information provided to AAP, Penrith is expected to receive salary cap dispensation from the NRL for the balance of the season.
That way, if the team can locate a suitable outside back for May, they can sign a player who is similar to him.
May hasn’t played since he was accused earlier this month of two counts of stalking or threatening someone with the aim to cause them to fear physical or mental damage and assault resulting in actual bodily harm.
It is purported that on the evening of April 8, he punched Jessica May in the face during a fight.
After reportedly stalking or threatening her at night, May was taken into custody more than a month later.
Before making his initial appearance at Penrith Local Court, the young rugby league player was given bail. He sat clutching rosary beads and heard attorney Abdul Reslan defend him.
Following his official not-guilty plea to the charges, May gave a “no comment” to reporters who were waiting outside the court.
The terms of the no-fault stand-down policy might still allow the Penrith star to keep receiving full pay during the court procedures.
May recently agreed to a nearly $1.5 million two-year contract extension with the Penrith Panthers, but it is subject to the outcome of the ongoing legal matter.
The Panthers issued a statement after his arrest stating that they will “continue to provide support to all parties involved”.
Ivan Cleary, the coach of Penrith, declined to comment on Tuesday when asked about May’s case or his comeback to football.
After advancing through Penrith’s youth routes and participating in local club sports with the Minchinbury Jets, May made her debut in August 2021.
May had an ACL injury during a World Club Challenge match against UK team St Helens, which caused him to miss the 2023 NRL season.
