Penrith superstar Nathan Cleary faces a significant setback after being cited and is expected to miss the first two rounds of the NRL season.
The halfback was sent to the sin bin during Penrith's 26-12 trial loss to the Wests Tigers after striking teenage winger Heamasi Makasini on the jaw.
The match review committee graded the incident as a grade two dangerous contact charge on Saturday.
An early guilty plea would see Cleary suspended for two matches, ruling him out of Penrith's season opener against Brisbane and their round two clash with Cronulla.
If Cleary contests the charge and is unsuccessful, the appeal could backfire and add another game to his ban.
Jack Cogger, who missed Friday's trial with a minor niggle, is the most likely candidate to step into the number seven role in Cleary's absence.
Penrith remain among the favourites to win the NRL premiership again, but a poor start to 2026 would seriously harm their title hopes.
Last season the Panthers sat at the bottom of the ladder after 12 rounds before rallying into the top eight.
Their campaign ultimately stalled when they ran out of energy and were beaten by the Broncos in the preliminary final.
That loss also brought an end to Penrith's run of four consecutive premierships.
Missing a leader of Cleary's calibre for the opening fortnight could have both tactical and morale consequences for the squad.
The club will now prepare contingency plans while awaiting the final outcome of the disciplinary process.