NRL hands suspension to Jacob Saifiti following red card against Warriors

Newcastle Knights forward Jacob Saifiti received a Grade 2 Reckless High Tackle charge following his send-off in Sunday’s match against the Warriors. The incident occurred during a tackle on Luke Laulilli, who was subsequently ruled out of the contest with a Category 2 HIA. Newcastle played with 12 men for most of the game, which resulted in a 46-32 loss for the Knights. Saifiti faces a four-game suspension if he accepts an early guilty plea, with the ban effectively ending his 2026 season. In other disciplinary rulings, Cronulla Sharks prop Tom Hazelton faces a one-game suspension for a hip-drop tackle, while Eels prop Junior Paulo avoided a ban but received an $1,800 fine for a similar incident. Players have until Tuesday to contest their respective charges.

• 1:08 AMZero Tackle NRL — Jacob Saifiti learns punishment after send off tackle