State of Origin

Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:49 am

Ashley Klein will referee State of Origin despite his past gambling problems.

In short:

Billy Slater and Laurie Daley support referee Ashley Klein after his gambling history was made public.

Klein lost almost $400,000 to horse and greyhound gambling.

What's next?

Klein will referee the State of Origin game at the MCG tonight at 8:05 pm.

Coaches Billy Slater and Laurie Daley support Ashley Klein after his gambling history was revealed.

Slater thinks it's unfair that Klein's personal life was made public.

Slater said he feels for Klein and thinks it's unfair to discuss his personal life publicly.

Klein had a gambling problem, but it was seven years ago and didn't affect his work.

Ashley Klein at Newcastle Racecourse in November 2025.

Klein got help for his problem and closed his betting accounts.

He was cleared of any wrongdoing by the NRL.

Blues coach Daley agrees with Slater that it won't affect Klein's work.

Daley hopes Klein has support to deal with this situation.

They have no issues with Klein refereeing the game.

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Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:49 am

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