LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Newcastle Knights star Caitlan Johnston has dodged a potential ban and will be able to play in the NRLW grand final thanks to a rule change that was implemented during the off-season.
Johnston was facing a one-game suspension for a high tackle on Brisbane's Mariah Denman, but a legal loophole allowed her to avoid the ban.
The charge sheet dropped on Monday morning, revealing that Johnston had been charged with a grade 1 careless high tackle offense.
Normally, this offense would result in a one-game ban if Johnston pleaded guilty early.
However, due to the recent judiciary code amendment, which aims to align the NRLW season with lighter bans, Johnston was able to escape suspension.
This season, Johnston had already served a suspension, but the rule change enabled her to take part in the grand final against the Titans.
In line with rule 39A, Johnston was offered a fine of $400 instead of a suspension.
The rule states that if the penalty for an offense is a one-match suspension and it is the player's first or second offense, they may choose to pay a fine of $400 upon entering a guilty plea.
In this case, the penalty imposed would be the fine and not the suspension.
The Knights wasted no time in accepting the fine, and coach Ron Griffiths expressed his delight that Johnston won't have to miss such an important game for a grade 1 offense.
This rule change has provided Johnston with a lifeline, allowing her to fulfill her role as a star forward in the grand final.
The decision has surely lifted the spirits of Knights fans, who would have been devastated to see one of their key players sidelined for such a crucial match.
With this lucky break, Johnston will now have the opportunity to showcase her skills and contribute to her team's success in the NRLW grand final.