NRL Magic Round injury and suspension news: Reuben Cotter facing two-week ban for high tackle

Another week, another suspension for high contact, this time for a Cowboys star forward who now faces the risk of missing State of Origin game one if he is unsuccessful in fighting the charge.

North Queensland captain Reuben Cotter is facing the next fortnight on the sidelines after he was whacked with a grade two careless tackle charge by the NRL’s match review committee.

The moment was missed in the run of play, but seven minutes into their Magic Round loss to the Warriors Cotter launched at forward Marata Niukore, making contact with his head.

He was then placed on report by the bunker.

With an early guilty plea Cotter will miss back-to-back games in Townsville, including Saturday’s clash with Penrith followed by Manly in round 11.

Fighting the charge comes with a huge risk.

Should he opt to go to judiciary, he faces three weeks on the sidelines which would rule the Queensland forward out of Origin I at Suncorp Stadium on May 28.

Meanwhile, Rabbitohs prop Tavita Tatola has escaped a ban for his hit on Knights fullback Kalyn Ponga during their 30-4 loss on Saturday.

He has been charged with a grade one careless high tackle, but was handed a $1000 fine.

Originally published as NRL Magic Round injury and suspension news: Reuben Cotter facing two-week ban for high tackle