LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
NRL fans and analysts are calling for reforms to the match review committee (MRC) procedures following the overturning of Nicho Hynes' one-game suspension due to a hip-drop tackle. Hynes was reinstated to compete in Saturday's elimination final against the Roosters after the Bulldogs presented medical evidence indicating that the injury suffered by Marcelo Montoya was less severe than initially believed. Consequently, Hynes' original grade two charge and suspension were reduced to a grade one charge accompanied by a fine.
League legends Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen have joined the chorus of criticism from fans, arguing that the MRC should assess the act itself rather than its outcome when imposing charges. Many questioned whether Hynes' tackle even qualified as a hip-drop, especially since the early concerns indicated that Montoya's injury could be season-ending, prompting the MRC to issue a grade two penalty.
Revealing insights on Nine's 100% Footy, Bulldogs chief Phil Gould disclosed that new medical evidence was provided to the NRL on Monday, which clarified Montoya's condition was not as dire as initially thought. This revelation prompted the MRC to make the surprising decision to downgrade Hynes' charge and annul his ban based on the updated information.
"When we found out Sunday night that the X-ray wasn't so bad and he was a chance of playing again in the finals, we made the decision to contact the Sharks," Gould stated. "They went in straight away with the doctor's letter to the NRL and they came back and downgraded the charge, so thankfully Nicho is playing on the weekend."
Gould expressed his belief that Hynes should not have faced any charges initially, and emphasized that the specifics of Montoya's injury should not influence the MRC's judgment. Smith and Gallen concurred, with Smith reflecting the sentiments of many fans who are calling for a thorough review of the MRC's decision-making process.
"I think it's incredible that it's happened," Smith remarked on 100% Footy. "I didn't believe it was a hip-drop, and I didn't think he should have been charged."
"I just think this opens a can of worms and I think we need to have a review of how the MRC make their charges - I'm with Gal, I don't think it should be based on injuries. It's not a criminal law; we're playing sport. Isn't this the perfect opportunity now, because of this incident? There has to be a review."