Verdict revealed on Super League player’s suspension appeal

Tonight Leigh Leopards appealed Nathan Wilde’s ban arising from the club’s 20-6 win over Leeds Rhinos.

He was charged with Grade B Dangerous Contact.

He was one of six players who were charged with this offence but only one of two banned for the offence.

In the same game, Tom Holroyd was fined £250 for dangerous contact for a late hit. His lack of ban likely means he will debut for England against France on Saturday.

Interestingly, Wilde’s offence did not pertain to a late hit like the other five dangerous contact charges but was about posing a risk to the opponent’s limbs which has become more common place since the clamp down on hip drop tackles.

Wilde’s appeal went to tribunal tonight and he won admitting to the offence but challenging the grading leading to no ban and just a £250 fine.

The RFL made the following statement:

“Leigh Leopards’ Nathan Wilde tonight won his appeal against a charge of Grade B Dangerous Contact with a Leeds Rhinos opponent during last Friday’s Betfred Super League game.

“Wilde admitted the offence but successfully challenged its grading, which was downgraded to Grade A and his one match suspension overturned. He is fined £250.”

The following players accepted Match Review Panel charges:

Joe Batchelor – St Helens – Other Contrary Behaviour – A – No further action

Kenny Edwards – Castleford Tigers – Other Contrary Behaviour – C – 1 Match Penalty Notice

Bureta Faraimo – Castleford Tigers – Dangerous Contact – A – No further action

Bureta Faraimo – Castleford Tigers – Strikes – B – 1 Match Penalty Notice

Tom Holroyd – Leeds Rhinos – Dangerous Contact – B – £250 Fine

Willie Isa – Wigan Warriors – Dangerous Throw – C – 2 Match Penalty Notice

Michael McIlorum – Catalans Dragons – Trips – B – 1 Match Penalty Notice

Nathan Peats – Huddersfield Giants – Dangerous Contact – A – No further action

Jorge Taufua – Wakefield Trinity – Dangerous Contact – A – No further action

Liam Watts – Castleford Tigers – Dangerous Contact – B – 1 Match Penalty Notice

Nathan Wilde – Leigh Leopards – Dangerous Contact – A – £250 Fine

Taukeiaho is appealing his ban in a tribunal next week.