Seven Manly Sea Eagles players have withdrawn from a National Rugby League match in Australia because they’re unwilling to wear their club’s inclusion jersey.

The jersey has rainbow stripes and a rainbow collar — in place of the regular white sections — to support LGBTQ inclusion in sports, and the club plans to use it for one game against Sydney Roosters.
“These young men are strong in their beliefs and convictions and we will give them the space and support they require." - Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler said

“Our intent was to be caring towards all diverse groups who face inclusion issues daily,” Hasler said. “Sadly this poor management has caused significant confusion, discomfort and pain for many people, in particular those groups whose human rights we in fact attempting to support.
“We’ll never take a backward step in having our sport inclusive. But at the same time we will not disrespect our players’ freedoms.”

Local media reports said the Manly players were not aware they would be expected to wear the jersey until after it was shown to the media.

NRL rules don't allow the seven players to wear an alternate jersey without the rainbow messaging because match regulations require all players in a team to wear an identical strip.

The club lost the match without the seven players. In the name of inclusion, the players were exclused from watching and supporting their team-mates as they were banned from the ground.