Cameron Munster free to play after dangerous contact charge downgraded

Melbourne Storm five-eighth Cameron Munster has successfully avoided suspension after his dangerous contact charge was downgraded by the NRL Match Review Committee. The incident occurred during the Storm's recent win over Manly.

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When initially ascribing a grading to Melbourne Storm's Cameron Munster for the charge of dangerous contact, the MRC considered the contents of a medical report provided by the injured player’s club, which offered preliminary details as to the nature and extent of the injury.

Munster had been facing a potential one-week ban, with a risk of two weeks if he challenged the charge unsuccessfully. The initial charge, a grade two for dangerous contact, stemmed from a low tackle on Manly prop Taniela Paseka during the match. Munster was the third player involved in the tackle, targeting Paseka's legs, which left the Manly player in visible pain and requiring assistance from the field.

However, the NRL Match Review Committee reviewed new information, including a medical report on Paseka's injury. This report indicated that the injury sustained by the Manly player was not as severe as initially assessed. Consequently, the charge was downgraded to a grade one dangerous contact offense.

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Subsequently, the match review committee has received a further report which materially alters the nature and extent of the injury suffered by the player.

This downgrade means Munster will not serve a suspension. Instead, he can accept a $750 fine by pleading guilty to the amended charge. The NRL statement explained that further medical information warranted the change in grading, allowing for an amended notice of charge to be issued according to judiciary code rules. Munster has recently returned from a knee injury, and this development allows him to continue playing as the Storm push for a finals spot.

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Following due consideration of this report, the match review committee has reviewed the charge against Cameron Munster and, in accordance with the judiciary code, has forwarded the player an amended notice of charge for the offence of dangerous contact (grade 1).