2022 has seen a massive increase in the number of suspensions handed out as the RFL clamps down on dangerous play and specifically contact with the head.
This came on the back of a group of former pros threatening to take legal action against the sport over head injuries they sustained during their playing days, the early retirement of former Leeds Rhinos skipper Stevie Ward due to concussion and the information garnered by plenty of research into head injuries and the risks they pose.
Head high tackles have been punished harshly as have late hits and any contact with the head. More so, we’ve seen dangerous throws hit hard too with a view to protect players from head and neck injuries.
Yesterday it was revealed that Hakim Miloudi of Barrow Raiders faces an eight-match ban or more after two offences including picking up an injured player were rolled into a Grade F charge and now another Championship player has been cited.
Dewsbury Rams stand-off Alex Smith is set to miss the next two games through suspension after being hit with a ban for a dangerous throw in Dewsbury’s defeat to Leigh last Friday meaning he’ll miss the Easter derby against Batley on Good Friday.
A blow that the Rams could have done without after such a thumping defeat to Leigh last time out which left them 12th with one win and one point ahead of the relegation zone.
❌ | Alex Smith has received a 2 Match Penalty Notice from the RFL disciplinary panel due to a Grade C Dangerous Throw during last Friday’s game against Leigh Centurions. #UTR | #RamsFam pic.twitter.com/1dcQcItb2w
— Dewsbury Rams (@DewsburyRams) April 8, 2022
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