Hull KR star Peta Hiku learns fate after facing five-game ban

After being handed a Grade E charge that could carry a five-match ban, Hull KR star Peta Hiku has learned his fate.

Hiku was very controversially charged with ‘Making unnecessary contract with a player who is or may be injured’, something that the RFL typically act very harshly upon.

As such, he was handed a Grade E charge which carries a sanctioning guideline of three to five matches, much to the confusion and shock of fans and even one former Super League referee.

Richard Silverwood described the charge as ‘Beggars belief’ with Hiku’s decision to lift Junior Nsemba’s shoulder when checking on the 20-year-old whilst he lay prone being the action that found him in hot water.

Whilst the length of the possible ban is devastating, as is the fact that if upheld then the Hull KR man would miss the Pacific Championship tests for New Zealand after he became the first Super League player to be called up to the Kiwi squad since 2017.

Hull KR star learns fate after Grade E charge

A decision has now been made by the Operational Rules Tribunal and it is good news for Hull KR with the tribunal confirming that Hiku was successful in his appeal against the charge.

A statement from the RFL confirmed: “Peta Hiku of Hull KR has successfully challenged a Grade E making unnecessary contact with a player who is or maybe injured after last Saturday’s Betfred Super League Grand Final against Wigan Warriors. The Independent Operational Rules Tribunal found him not guilty.”

As such, he will now be available to play for New Zealand in the Pacific Championship with their first game coming next week whilst also being free for all of Hull KR’s games during pre-season.