NRL drops referee Ashley Klein ahead of preliminary finals

Ashley Klein has been removed from officiating duties for the NRL preliminary finals following a controversial match between the Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors on September 20, 2026. The Knights won the Semi Final 12-10, but Klein's decisions during the game, including a missed penalty call against the Warriors, have drawn significant criticism. The NRL confirmed that the penalty should have been awarded and is investigating abuse directed towards Klein after the match. Adam Gee, Gerard Sutton, and Grant Atkins are potential replacements for Klein in the upcoming finals.

• 7:50 AMZero Tackle NRL — NRL make big referee decision for preliminary finals