LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
New Zealand Kiwis forward Isaiah Papali'i has been charged with dangerous contact following a late hit during the match against Samoa on Sunday afternoon.
In the 57th minute, the Penrith Panthers player was penalised for applying late pressure on Samoan halfback Jarome Luai, though he was not officially reported at the time.
However, the NRL's match review committee has decided that the incident warranted further action, resulting in a Grade 1 charge being filed against Papali'i.
According to NRL judiciary rules, players can incur fines for various offences in representative rugby league. If Papali'i accepts an early guilty plea, he faces a fine equivalent to 7 percent of his match fees, whereas contesting the charge at the judiciary could result in a 10 percent fine.
The only other player awaiting news was Samoan outside back Deine Mariner, who was reported for a dangerous tackle in the 63rd minute of the game, which saw New Zealand prevail 24-18.
Fortunately for Mariner, the match review committee found no reason to impose sanctions, and he has cleared his name.
Papali'i has until midday (AEDT) on Tuesday to decide on his plea.