LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The NRL has delivered a stern warning to defenders, reminding them that they still face consequences for illegal contact with kickers, despite Harry Grant's rare victory at the judiciary.
The decision to sin bin Grant may have raised eyebrows, but the NRL is adamant about protecting the kickers in the game.
Grant, the Storm skipper, found himself in hot water after a challenge on Cronulla's Daniel Atkinson was deemed dangerous.
However, his lawyer argued that the incident was harmless and lacked any malice.
The hooker was staring down a fine if found guilty, but the Storm's confidence in his innocence led them to challenge the charge in a groundbreaking case.
The judiciary panel deliberated and ultimately cleared Grant of any wrongdoing, citing his efforts to slow down and avoid contact with the kicker.
While the NRL accepted the decision, they emphasized that the action was still deemed dangerous and posed a risk of injury.
NRL's head of football, Graham Annesley, stated, "We respect the judiciary's finding that Harry was not careless.
However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the contact was still considered dangerous with a potential for harm."
In true rugby league fashion, defenders are on notice that the league will not tolerate any reckless behavior towards kickers on the field.
The NRL's commitment to player safety remains unwavering, and they will continue to enforce the rules to safeguard the integrity of the game.