“I’ve had chats with some Polynesian boys here [with Christian beliefs], and most of them would be more than happy to wear a Pride jersey.

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“When you are raised believing one thing, and your family believes one thing, it’s very hard to think of another thing. They also know the world we live in, and they know it’s a modern world.

“People know what my beliefs are already.”

Rudolf spoke about wanting to take part in the weekend’s Mardi Gras in Sydney after the NRL’s hopes of having their own float was rejected. ARL Commission chairman Peter V’Landys insisted the Sea Eagles rainbow drama was not the cause for the game being snubbed by organisers.

Rudolf had the chance to join a Mardi Gras float featuring the Sydney Convicts rugby team, but picked up some late tickets for Ed Sheeran, who was performing at Accor Stadium in Homebush.

Fellow Shark and Dally M Medal winner Nicho Hynes was another strong supporter of the concept, even if it meant players with strong Christian beliefs opted out of playing that particular weekend.

Hynes backed Rudolf’s stance. “If rugby league is such an advocate about being inclusive of all cultures and people, we have Indigenous Round and Multicultural Round ... I 100 per cent support the gay community, and if we want to celebrate a round for that community, let’s do it,” Hynes said.

“I’m also for players sitting out that round if they have to because of their beliefs. I’m not going to begrudge people. Certain cultures believe in different things. I’m still happy to have the round. Everyone is equal.”

Josh Aloiai, who was one of the Manly Seven, told the Herald last week the players would not be placed in that position again, and supported a Respect Round, which was floated by V’Landys, and said that was “true inclusivity”.

Manly have since backed away from pressing ahead with wearing a rainbow jersey a second year, and are happy to await direction from the NRL.

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