Hayne’s lawsuit won’t be a distraction for the team - Eels captain

Parramatta Eels captain Tim Mannah has insisted the latest development in Hayne’s lawsuit won’t be a distraction for the team ahead of the Eels’ Round one clash.

Hayne’s lawyers have rejected a woman’s claims in US court that he raped her in 2015, demanding the civil lawsuit be dismissed and that she pay his legal costs.

The saga threatens to overshadow his emotional return to the Eels where Hayne will also play his 200th match.

However, Mannah denied the Hayne case has been talked about among the group.

Mannah believes Hayne can rediscover his best form at his former club, and praised his leadership abilities since coming back.

Meanwhile, Melbourne Storm beat the Bulldogs 36‑18, the Wests Tigers earned a 10‑8 upset win over the Sydney Roosters while the Warriors defeated the South Sydney Rabbitohs 32‑20.

The Panthers will take on the Eels at 5.10pm while the Titans will face the Raiders at 7.30pm.

Source: news.com.au