Verdict revealed on Adam Doueihi’s second appeal ahead of must win game as ex-Leeds Rhinos man features on independent panel

Adam Doueihi will not be available for Lebanon in their must win clash against Ireland this week.

Ireland go into the game knowing that a win will all but secure their place in the quarter-finals where they’ll meet holders Australia most likely.

However, Lebanon are the other likely side to make it out of the group alongside New Zealand who are almost guaranteed.

Led by NRL Grand Finalists Mitchell Moses, Lebanon have great talent but he will not have his superb halfback partner Adam Doueihi alongside him as they take on Ireland following defeat to the Kiwis last week.

This is because his one-match ban for foul and abusive language towards the match official has been upheld.

Doueihi was sent off for his remarks in the defeat and banned on Monday. He appealed but the ban was upheld leading him taking it to an independent tribunal which has again upheld the ban.

The tribunal is separate from the World Cup and included former Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves and NRL star Adrian Morley among the panel.

Their verdict can be read below: “Adam Doueihi (Lebanon) was unsuccessful in his appeal against a one-match suspension for Grade A Foul and/or abusive language to a Match Official during the match against New Zealand on 16 October.

“A summary of the minutes from the Judiciary Appeals Tribunal will be available shortly. Doueihi will now serve a one-match ban and miss Sunday’s clash against Ireland.

“Tribunals are independent of the RLWC2021, made up of a legally qualified Chair and assisted by side members with relevant experience such as ex-professional players, coaches or match officials. RLWC2021 would like to thank the Judiciary Appeals Tribunal panel HHJ Sarah Wright, Alan Hunte and Adrian Morley.”