Just days after copping a career ending three-match ban, kiwi enforcer Jared Waera-Heargraves has been cleared to play his final professional match in the Super League grand final.
The backflip occurred after his club Hull KR successfully appealed the original decision, resulting in ‘Grade C’ charges against Waera-Heargraves being dropped following a tackle in last weekend’s semi final.
While the tackle itself on St Helens winger Jon Bennison always looked at the lower range of offences, it was the RFL’s disciplinary points system that led to the original heavy sanction.
The 36-year-old forward had been on the verge of a suspension for some time, meaning even a minor ‘Grade A’ charge would have been enough to see him banned.
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Following Hull KR’s successful appeal the Rugby Football League released a statement:
“Jared Waerea-Hargreaves of Hull KR has successfully challenged a Grade C charge of head contact arising from Saturday’s Betfred Super League semi-final against St Helens, which would have led to a three-match suspension.
“The RFL’s independent operational rules tribunal upheld the player’s not guilty plea. He is therefore free to play in Saturday’s Grand Final.”
Minor premiers Hull KR will face Wigan Warriors in the Super League decider on Sunday morning, Australian time, Kick off at 4am (AEDT).
Hull KR can confirm that Jared Waerea-Hargreaves' Grade C charge of 'Head Contact' has been successfully appealed meaning the prop forward is free to play in this Saturday's Grand Final 😤#UpTheRobins🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/pvSNtUBvyA
— Hull KR (@hullkrofficial) October 7, 2025