Why Leeds Rhinos star avoided ban after being placed on report in England’s win over France

Three of England’s top NRL forwards were cited by the disciplinary panel but they all managed to avoid bans.

However, had this not been the case, Shaun Wane could have had a very thread bare pack in the next few games and matters could have been even worse had Mikolaj Oledzki been suspended.

Fortunately for the Leeds Rhinos star, he has avoided picking up a ban in his first World Cup game and now could feature against Greece hoping to cement a place for the knockouts after missing the opening game of the tournament against Samoa when Shaun Wane looked to name his strongest ban.

Oledzki had been placed on report during the 42-18 win over France in which he came up against future Leeds Rhinos teammate Justin Sangare who caused England problems off the bench.

The tackle which got Oledzki in hot water could be perceived as a cannon ball tackle as he went into the back of the man which ultimately forced the French player, Jordan Dezaria, to bend over the top of him.

However, this was largely down to the contact made by Oledzki’s England teammates at the top of the tackle including Salford Red Devils star Andy Ackers.

Because of this, Oledzki avoided a ban with the panel’s minutes reading: “Player makes initial contact with the upper thighs before sliding down to the knees. Actions of teammates push opponent over.”