Warrington Wolves’ new signing Toafofoa Sipley is facing a delayed start to his Super League career after copping a four-match suspension in what looks to be his final weeks in the NRL.
The Manly Sea Eagles forward was charged with Grade 2 Dangerous Contact following a clash with Dragons prop David Klemmer last weekend.
Instead of taking a three-match ban with an early guilty plea, Sipley challenged the charge at the judiciary, only to see the penalty increased to four games.
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Ban carries over to Super League
Sipley will serve one of those games this weekend against New Zealand Warriors, though it would take a miracle for Manly to extend their season.
The Sea Eagles would need to beat the Warriors, see Sydney Roosters stumble, overturn an 82-point differential and hope the Dolphins also fail to win. That scenario makes it almost certain Sipley will carry three games of his suspension into life at Warrington.
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The RFL has confirmed that NRL suspensions are recognised in England, though the rules allow up to two pre-season fixtures to be used towards the ban. Even in the best case, that would still leave Sipley sidelined for the Wolves’ opening match of the 2026 campaign.
It means the 29-year-old’s landmark 100th NRL appearance will double as a farewell, with his long-awaited switch to Super League starting on the sidelines.