Ronaldo Mulitalo receives one-game ban in Rugby League World Cup

New Zealand winger Ronaldo Mulitalo has been handed a one-game suspension following a shoulder charge on Fiji’s Ronald Philitoga during the Rugby League World Cup. The incident occurred in the 52nd minute of New Zealand’s 78-0 victory over Fiji on the Gold Coast.

The tackle triggered a melee between players, during which Fiji halfback Brandon Wakeham punched Mulitalo in the head. Both players were sent off. The judiciary classified Mulitalo’s tackle as a grade-two offense, deemed careless, and issued a one-match ban contingent on an early plea. Wakeham also received a one-game suspension.

While the suspension impacts New Zealand ahead of their upcoming semi-final against either Samoa or Tonga, Mulitalo will be eligible for the grand final if the Kiwis advance. Fiji has been eliminated from the tournament.