NRL chief executive Dave Smith throws Todd Carney an ASADA hospital pass at Nines launch Todd Carney, Willie Tonga and Robbie Farah at the launch of the Auckland Nines. WHO needs Benji Marshall when you've got Dave Smith, the new sidestep king of rugby league. The NRL chief executive yesterday threw Todd Carney the best hospital pass of 2013 - evading questions on the ASADA controversy and leaving the Sharks star stuck in the spotlight. Along with Carney, Robbie Farah, Greg Bird and Willie Tonga, Smith yesterday stood on stage at League Central to once again ­promote the upcoming Auckland Nines. After the formalities, where Smith smiled in front of the cameras with sponsors, media representatives - as expected - approached the NRL boss for an update on the serious ASADA drama. Good luck! Todd Carney, Greg Bird, Willie Tonga and Robbie Farah at the launch of the Auckland Nines. With a Marshall-esque sidestep and blinding acceleration, Smith bolted from the room along with NRL media and communications manager John Brady. With Cronulla under the pump, the 30-strong media contingent then converged on Carney. The Sharks star was hung out to dry by Smith. And he wasn't impressed. Brady leaves his position today after 18 years, Smith having no-one to hide behind until new head of media and communications Sandy Olsen starts on January 13. NRL officials claim a media release promoting the event clearly stated ASADA would not be discussed. Since when though does an NRL CEO tell the media which questions he will answer? The Daily Telegraph asked Smith last night for an explanation but he refused. To his credit, Carney fronted up and openly discussed the ASADA drama, claiming it has been a "nightmare for everyone." He was quick to shoot down speculation some teammates could be suspended. Carney was talking yesterday at the launch for the Auckland Nines, to be played on March 15 and 16 at Eden Park. Already 36,000 tickets for each day have been sold, with organisers hoping that will jump to 44,000 by kick-off. There is a $2.25m prize pool, with ticket sales having already generated $3m. The tournament's trophy was unveiled yesterday. Five tackles and five point tries will ensure excitement. Gold Coast's Greg Bird said: "Everything will be different in Nines football.