Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has spoken out on Jack Wighton's impending departure from the Raiders after the five-eighth confirmed he'd be joining the Rabbitohs earlier this week.
Stuart was strong in his criticism of the NRL contract system and revealed the real reason behind Wighton's departure.
Various reports have speculated about the former representative utility's motivation to win a premiership while there were also rumours he'd move to the Dolphins so his wife could return to Queensland.
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However, Stuart explained the reasoning was much more simple than that.
"Jack and I have been communicating. The five or six different excuses I keep hearing out there is complete crap," he told Fox League before the Raiders clash with the Dolphins.
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"Jack wanted a change, and I get that, the timing of it is wrong. I said earlier in the week, the system's flawed, Jack shouldn't be put under this pressure in regards to having to make a decision now … it's unfair on the fans.
"Jack and I have had regular communication and I felt for Jack having to make the decision. I understand the decision [and] I'm comfortable with Jack making that decision to leave, it's just unfortunate with the timing.
"Credit to Jack and credit to the players, it hasn't disrupted our week."
Pressed further on the contract system in which players can sign for another club during the current season, Stuart believes it's a problem that needs upheaval.
"They've got it wrong, and the NRL need to fix it," he said.
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