An investigation concluded Colangelo’s wife was likely using the four anonymous accounts that shared private information about the Sixers. Coach Brett Brown has taken over operations on an interim basis.

Veteran forward Isaiah Yeo also isn’t buying into the rumours.

“I expect him to play, but he’s been the best player in the competition, so we’ve got plans in place to try and combat that, and limit the good things he can do in a game,” he said.

“I’m not sure, it’s news to me, but I daresay he’ll be out there playing. It’s a huge game for both teams, so if there’s any chance he can, I’m sure he will.”

Yeo suggests it would not be the first time injury rumours popped up in playoff build-up.

“I probably won’t buy into it too much,” grinned second-rower Liam Martin. “We’ll still prepare the same.

The veteran playmaker has boarded a charter flight from Auckland to Sydney, sporting a calf bandage, amid claims he is considered only a 50-50 chance of taking the field against the defending champions.

Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards has greeted the news with skepticism.

“It would be for any side, losing their No.7, particularly the way Shaun’s been playing,” he said. “We’ll prepare as if he is playing and do our due diligence there.”