Well known gambling identity Eddie Hayson has been widely reported as being one of the main players in the betting scandal gripping the NRL.

The NSW Police Force have set up Strike Force Nuralda to investigate a series of allegations that have been circling the game for several months.

Hayson is a close friend of former Manly and Parramatta star Kieran Foran.

The strike force is investigating matches played between Parramatta and Manly in 2015 and 2016, among others. 

Channel Nine reporter Danny Weidler conducted a phone interview with Hayson on Wednesday.

Hayson strongly denied any involvement with an investigation that will see dozens of players, coaches and members of the public interviewed.  

When asked if he had ever been involved in match-fixing, Hayson said:

“Never,” Hayson said.

“... I hope they go and get 300 of the best detectives they have and take as long as they need to and go through everything from A-Z and finally clear all of the innocent people that have been dragged through this mess.”

Hayson said he had nothing to worry about in regards to facing any criminal charges in relation to match-fixing.

“Absolutely nothing. I would like anybody to go and dig up one game where I have had a decent bet and show me where any player that I know well has played poorly,” Hayson said.

“Nothing. Nothing involving me. Not a single thing let me make it loud and clear.”

NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said the code would come down hard on anyone found guilty of such crimes.

“We are not going to pre-judge any person associated with the game while this process is under way,” he said.

“But I repeat my earlier warning that if any person is convicted of match fixing they will face a life ban from any involvement in Rugby League.”