Reuben Cotter Cleared for State of Origin Opener
North Queensland Cowboys forward Reuben Cotter will be eligible to play in the State of Origin opener despite being sin binned during a recent match against the Sydney Roosters. The incident occurred when Cotter was given a yellow card for what was perceived as contact off the ball on Roosters halfback Sam Walker. The decision sparked controversy, but the match review committee has chosen not to charge him, supporting the stance taken by coach Todd Payten, who had indicated he would question the NRL’s decision following the game.
Cotter’s dismissal came in the second half of the match, but the lack of further action from the committee suggests that the play was not deemed to be a serious breach of the rules. This outcome is a relief for both the player and the team as they prepare for the upcoming State of Origin series.
Suspensions Loom for Lehi Hopoate and Patrick Herbert
While Cotter remains clear, other players face potential suspensions. Manly’s Lehi Hopoate and Wests Tigers’ Patrick Herbert are among those under scrutiny.
Hopoate was involved in an incident during Manly’s win over the Tigers when he appeared to push the referee after chasing a kick, causing the official to fall. He has been charged with Grade 2 contrary conduct, which could result in a one-match suspension if he accepts the charge, or a second match if he contests it and loses.
Herbert, on the other hand, faces a Grade 2 dangerous contact charge. If he pleads guilty early, he will receive a two-match ban, while a contested case could see him suspended for three matches. In addition to the suspension, Herbert has also been fined $1800 for the same offense, with the fine increasing to $2500 if he fights the charge.
Additional Fines for Other Players
Several other players have also received fines for various infractions. Terrell May, Jock Madden, Tom Chester, and Matt Lodge have all been charged with high tackles or dangerous contact.
May, Lodge, and Madden are facing fines of $750 if they accept the charges early, or $1000 if they contest them and lose. Chester, meanwhile, is facing a fine of $1800 for dangerous contact, with the amount increasing to $2500 if he contests the charge.
All these players must submit their pleas by midday (AEST) on Monday, marking a critical deadline for those involved in the disciplinary process.
Key Details
- Reuben Cotter: Sin-binned for a high shot during the Cowboys’ win over the Roosters, but not charged by the match review committee.
- Lehi Hopoate: Charged with Grade 2 contrary conduct, potentially leading to a one-match suspension.
- Patrick Herbert: Faces a two-match ban for dangerous contact, with additional fines depending on his plea.
- Other Players: Terrell May, Jock Madden, Tom Chester, and Matt Lodge have also been fined for high tackles or dangerous contact.
- Deadline: All players involved in disciplinary actions must submit their pleas by midday (AEST) on Monday.
