Ablett suspension upheld

Leeds second row Carl Ablett has lost his appeal against the three-match suspension handed down by the RFL Disciplinary Committee for reckless striking in the Rhinos’ engage Super League defeat by Wigan Warriors.

An RFL Appeals Tribunal upheld the ban after a hearing earlier today [Thursday].

The tribunal ruled that although they were satisfied there had been no malice or intent to cause injury, it was only through good fortune that Ablett’s 15th-minute tackle had not caused serious injury to Wigan player Sam Tomkins.

As well as having to pay the £300 fine imposed on Tuesday, Ablett was ordered to meet the £200 costs of the appeal hearing.

Ablett will miss the Rhinos’ Carnegie Challenge Cup semi final against St Helens on Saturday and league fixtures against Castleford Tigers and Les Catalans Dragons.