According to Nat Barr, the late-night argument between Australian cricket star Michael Clarke and his partner Jade Yarbrough could have affected his lucrative sponsorships.
Barr, who is the host of the morning show “Sunrise,” said that the fight between Clarke and Yarbrough, as well as Karl Stefanovic, could have violated the contracts of the athlete.
According to Barr, the contracts of the athletes have clauses that specify that if a brand gets into disrepute, then their sponsorships might be affected.
However, Matt Shirvington, her co-host, said that Clarke could avoid penalties by maintaining his sponsorships as they are short-term deals.
Peter Ford, an entertainment reporter, also doubted that he would be dropped by a company due to the public spat.
The incident, which was caught on camera outside a restaurant in Australia on January 10, was published by the Daily Telegraph.
Yarbrough accused Clarke of having an affair with Pip Edwards, a fashion designer. During the fight, Clarke repeatedly denied the allegations. His partner also reportedly saw him slap Yarbrough.
Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough, who is the sister of Jade, were also reportedly present during the incident.
The Queensland Police are currently investigating the matter. No charges have been laid. Clarke is now dealing with the financial fallout of the incident, as it was reported by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald that a potential sponsorship deal had been pulled by a skincare brand shortly after the footage was released.
It is also uncertain if he will be able to earn a six-figure contract for his upcoming television commentary gig during the Australian Test tour of India.
The position, which is reportedly worth $145,000, would see Clarke working alongside former teammate Matthew Hayden.
According to a report by the Daily Telegraph, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly looking into the situation regarding Clarke’s participation in the commentary team.