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Wests Tigers playmaker Josh Reynolds has spoken for the first time since being cleared to play as he faces a domestic violence charge.

Embattled Wests Tigers star Josh Reynolds has encouraged other NRL players facing off-field dramas to be open with the league if they want to keep playing.

Speaking for the first time since being cleared to play as he faces domestic violence charges, Reynolds admitted being left in a dark place during his ordeal.

"I'm not going to lie, I was in a bit of a bad place when that was all up in the air," Reynolds said after playing in the Tigers' pre-season loss to Penrith on Saturday.

"Footy is my release and I was definitely a bit worried.

"For the NRL to back me and put their faith in me is a great feeling. Just to step over that white line tonight, despite the result, was an awesome feeling."

Reynolds has been embroiled in an ugly scandal involving allegations he was conned by his ex-partner who faked three pregnancies.

The former NSW State of Origin representative has pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning bodily harm, and is due back in court in April.

Having been transparent with the NRL integrity unit throughout the saga, Reynolds was given the green light to keep playing instead of being stood down.

"I'm just happy they understood," said Reynolds, who played 40 minutes in the halves before spending another 25 minutes at hooker against the Panthers.

"I was really hoping they would because I was on the front foot, I had nothing to hide, and I never have.

"I know I have done nothing wrong. It was just me making sure I had everything covered because I had a bad feeling. It didn't go well.

"I'm just happy to be back playing footy because it's what I love doing."

The 30-year-old urged other players facing off-field issues to do the same.

"Because that's what saved me, you know. Even if you haven't done the wrong thing and you're hiding, nothing good's going to come for it," he said.

"Whatever I done and didn't do, I went there and told them. They can't say, 'Well, you didn't tell me this or that'.

"I definitely push for players to go and tell them because in the end, if you haven't done anything wrong, they'll hopefully support you."