Leeds Rhinos have been dealt a massive blow after Rhyse Martin was ruled out of Friday’s Super League play-off eliminator at Catalans Dragons through suspension. The hugely influential second-rower has been handed a one-match ban following Saturday’s dramatic home win over Castleford Tigers in the final round of the regular season.
A Grade A High Tackle has resulted in the ban and means the Papua New Guinea international, such a reliable goalkicker, will miss the trip to the south of France.
It is a major setback as Rohan Smith’s side bid to continue their season with a victory at the Stade Gilbert Brutus, with Ash Handley set to miss out through injury along with fellow winger David Fusitu’a.
Read next: RFL CEO Ralph Rimmer confirms plan to quit governing body alongside another senior official
Star centre Harry Newman remains a longer-term absentee with a hamstring injury but is hoping to return to fitness in time for the World Cup.
Round 27 charges
- Sam Hall (Castleford Tigers) – Grade C Dangerous Contact – 2 Match Penalty Notice
- Suaia Matagi (Castleford Tigers) – Grade B Dangerous Contact – 2 Match Penalty Notice
- Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos) – Grade A High Tackle – 1 Match Penalty Notice
- Luke Gale (Hull FC) – Grade A Disputes Decision – 1 Match Penalty Notice
- Matty Storton (Hull KR) – Grade A Dangerous Contact – 0 Match Penalty Notice
- Liam Whitton (Cornwall) – Grade B Foul Abuse Towards Referee – 1 Match Penalty Notice
Read next
NRL coach reveals star winger selected in England's World Cup squad
Lee Radford picks out Castleford Tigers youngster set for big future after eye-catching display
Leeds Rhinos prop Mikolaj Oledzki shocked by Super League Dream Team recognition
Five Super League players who featured in every single game this season
St Helens ace Alex Walmsley set for injury D-Day with play-offs and World Cup looming
