New Zealand captain James Fisher-Harris is free to lead the Kiwis in the Rugby League World Cup final after escaping with a warning for a dangerous contact charge from Saturday night’s semi-final win over Tonga.
The match review committee charged Fisher-Harris with grade-one dangerous contact for lifting his knee into Tonga’s Salesi Foketi during a hit-up in the first half, according to the tournament charge list. As a first offence, an early guilty plea carries a warning, while the charge would carry a one-match ban if he challenged it and was found guilty at the panel.
There are no fines at the World Cup, and players receive a warning for a first-time offence, Yahoo Sport Australia reported. A second offence would bring a ban.
Read more: Kiwis Beat Tonga 34-10 to Reach Rugby League World Cup Final
Kiwis skipper clear for the final
Fisher-Harris was placed on report during the 34-10 win over Tonga that sent New Zealand into its first men’s World Cup final since 2013.
The 30-year-old played 55 minutes, running for 152 metres and making 33 tackles, according to Yahoo Sport Australia.
Journalist David Riccio said on Channel 7 on Saturday night: “I’ve seen throughout this World Cup it’s very much leaning (towards) a more lenient approach than what we’re seeing in the NRL season itself.”
“I think it’s a real focus on trying to keep the best players on the park during this World Cup tournament. Yes, he’s got a little bit of something to answer to, but I don’t think it is a match suspension.”
Whyte and Willison updates
Roosters forward Naufahu Whyte played only 13 minutes off the bench because of an ankle injury, but Roosters coach Trent Robinson said on Channel 7 that Whyte believes he will be right for the final, according to Yahoo Sport Australia. Xavier Willison passed a head injury assessment in the second half and returned to the field.
Read more: Kalyn Ponga Eyes Shock World Cup Semi-Final Return
New Zealand will play the winner of Sunday night’s semi-final between the Kangaroos and Samoa in the final on Sunday 15 November.
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