LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NRL, Melbourne Storm legend Cameron Smith has come out swinging over the judiciary's decision to hand down a hefty four-game ban to Nelson Asofa-Solomona.
This controversial ruling could see Asofa-Solomona sidelined for the grand final, pending a successful appeal at the judiciary.
Smith, known for his grit and determination on the field, has raised eyebrows with his criticism of the grading of Asofa-Solomona's hit on Lindsay Collins.
The Storm powerhouse was slapped with a grade 3 charge, prompting Smith to question the severity of the punishment.
In a fiery interview on SEN radio, Smith expressed his disbelief at the grading, suggesting that the penalty was overly harsh.
"I was happy with the sin binning, but I was surprised with the grading," Smith remarked, drawing attention to the impact of Collins being ruled out of the game.
"It's not like he tried to take his head off," Smith argued, employing his signature blend of honesty and forthrightness.
"The only intent he had was to be physical in the opening carry of the game.
He's pretty much standing upright and throws himself into the tackle with an open chest.
It wasn't a swinging arm," Smith added in defense of his teammate.
As the Storm gear up for a crucial judiciary hearing on Monday night, the rugby league world eagerly awaits the outcome of this high-stakes showdown.
Will Asofa-Solomona emerge victorious and secure his spot in the grand final, or will the NRL's tough stance prevail? Only time will tell in this gripping chapter of NRL drama.