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Leeds Rhinos’ reported new signing could face mammoth ban after being referred for investigation

Leeds Rhinos could face a problem with one of their reported new signings before the 2023 Super League season has even begun.

Batley Bulldogs fullback Luke Hooley could face a mammoth ban after being referred to an investigation for an allegation of biting.

Hooley, who continues to be linked with a move to Leeds for 2023 and beyond, was cited by the Disciplinary Match Review Panel and could face a ban of 12 matches if found guilty by the Operations Tribunal.

After coming through the ranks at Wakefield Trinity, the livewire left for Batley in the Championship following spells on loan at the Dewsbury Rams and Oldham before settling at Mount Pleasant.

Since then, Hooley has earned considerable admirers and he has no regrets about dropping down a division.

“I don’t have any regrets about leaving Wakefield,” Hooley previously told Serious About Rugby League.

“I enjoyed my time there, but joining Batley was the best decision I ever made.”

Hooley does, however, want to return to the top flight and reveals he has matured a lot since last season.

“2022 for me has been probably my best year of rugby.

“I had a good 2021 but I feel like I’ve matured a lot more and become more of a leader.

“I would love to return to Super League; it’s always been my goal to make my debut.”

Recently, speculation has been floating around that Hooley is being chased by a Super League side – the Leeds Rhinos whose transformation under new head coach Rohan Smith has been impressive to say the least.

And, with the salary cap tight at Headingley, attempting to unearth gems such as Hooley may be the way forward for Smith.

Hooley insists, however, that he hasn’t heard anything for next year.

“I haven’t heard anything about next year,” Hooley admitted.

“I’ve tried not to think about it to be fair and instead just focus on this year and getting into the play-offs.”

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