A major decision is set to be made by Hull KR.
Hull KR head coach Willie Peters has acknowledged that a decision must be made over whether the club will appeal the two-match suspension handed to veteran prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
The 36-year-old Kiwi forward received a Grade C charge for striking with the hand, arm, elbow, or shoulder during Rovers’ statement win over Wigan Warriors. The incident, which involved Wigan’s Tyler Dupree, was reviewed by the match panel and resulted in five penalty points. Due to his previous disciplinary record, Waerea-Hargreaves now faces a two-match ban.
The suspension means the influential prop is set to miss Super League clashes against Leeds Rhinos and St Helens respectively, with a trip to Headingley Stadium on Thursday.
Speaking to the media shortly after learning of the panel’s decision, Peters admitted a verdict on whether to contest the charge is required.
“I need to work out if we fight it, or if we don’t fight it,” Peters said. “But, if Jared doesn’t play, then someone certainly will step up – which they have all season.”
This is Waerea-Hargreaves’ second suspension of the season, following a two-match ban ahead of the Challenge Cup Final for a Grade D head contact offence.
Should Rovers choose not to challenge the ruling, there are options available to fill the void in the forward pack.
Eribe Doro has seized his opportunities in the first-team, with five appearances to date alongside a successful loan spell at former club Bradford Bulls in the Championship. He was named 18th man against the reigning champions last week.
25-year-old Jack Brown has also made 14 appearances this season, all from the interchange bench.
Meanwhile, half-back Tyrone May is back available after serving his two-match suspension.