Long will not be paid by St Helens while he is suspended

The duo were suspended for four and three months respectively after being found guilty of betting on their team to lose to Bradford on Easter Monday.

In a joint statement, the Great Britain players said: "We are very, very sorry for the damage which we have caused.

"We did not fully understand just how wrong and stupid our actions were. Now we do and will accept our punishment."

They added: "We have always been totally committed on the pitch and the only way we can make this up to the fans is by being ever more committed when we return."

Even though there was clearly no intention to influence the outcome of the game in question, their actions were idiotic Saints chairman Eamonn McManus

St Helens conducted their own investigation into the case and arrived at the same conclusion as the Rugby Football League.

"Their individual actions were unacceptable and foolhardy and have brought embarrassment to the club and to the game," said club chairman Eamonn McManus.

"The fine and ban imposed by the RFL is accepted by all concerned.

"Even though there was clearly no intention to influence the outcome of the game in question, their actions were idiotic.

"They are fully aware of the damage which they have done to the Club and the game and are genuinely sorry.

"They do accept that, in addition to the fines and the bans, they should not be paid their salaries by the club during their suspensions as there is no reason why the club should suffer further from their personal and individual misconduct.

"That said, once the suspension is over, the club will be wholly supportive of the two in their attempts to re-establish themselves as the great and committed players which they undoubtedly are.

We have no evidence that betting is a widespread problem RFL executive chairman Richard Lewis

"They have learned a lesson, are genuinely sorry, and have paid a very heavy price."

RFL executive chairman Richard Lewis believes that despite the negative publicity the case has brought the game, the investigation showed there was no widespread betting coup or suggestions of match-fixing.

"The decision reinforces the rules of rugby league and the fact that betting of this nature will not be tolerated," said Lewis.

"We have no evidence that betting is a widespread problem. We will consider what lessons need to be learned but it is important to keep this isolated incident in context."