As the National Rugby League prepares for its resumption on Thursday night, the A-League's future remains trapped in a tussle between Football Federation Australia and Fox Sports.
The World Game yesterday revealed the broadcaster were refusing to sanction a return until the FFA agreed to a funding package worth up to 50 per cent less annually than their existing $57.6 million-a-year commitment to the code.
With both parties at an impasse, and players already forced to take substantial pay cuts, the Western United centre-back believes the matter has since become more than "a joke".
"We stop the season because of Covid. OK FAIR," Durante wrote via Instagram.
"Covid cases start to decline. Maybe the season can start up again! NOPE!
"Fox won't pay the $12 million owed for broadcasting. League put back on hold.
"Fox finally pay the full amount. Amazing, we are gonna finish the season. NOPE!
"FFA decide to keep majority of the Fox money. League put back on hold again.
"FFA and PFA finally come to pay agreement.
"Great, sh*t deal, but a deal nonetheless. Season is back on. NOPE!
"Fox will only broadcast games if we agree to a 10mil per season broadcast deal.
"WTF is going on with our game???
"Enough is enough… it's beyond a joke now!!!"
The 38-year-old had been a key figure in Mark Rudan's side, who occupied the last finals spot before the coronavirus brought the season to a halt with five rounds remaining.
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