Newcastle hooker Bradman Best? (Crossland) is handed a four-match ban for a hip-drop tackle on Panthers half Nathan Cleary that causes a compound fracture. The suspension rules him out of Sunday’s NRL grand final and the opening games of the NRL season-related period leading into the World Cup.
Across outlets, Crossland says the incident is among the worst moments of his life and expresses remorse for what happened. Sources agree the tackle results in Cleary’s serious injury and that disciplinary action follows the NRL’s review of the incident. They also report that the ban spans multiple matches, affecting Crossland’s availability during a crucial phase for his club.
While the articles differ mainly in wording and emphasis—such as the tone of Crossland’s comments—they align on the core details: the type of tackle, the nature of Cleary’s injury, and the length and timing of the suspension.
