George Williams to Miss first two Tests against Tonga after Appeal is Rejected

England captain George Williams will not be able to participate in the first two Tests against Tonga after his appeal against an extended ban was rejected. Williams, who plays as a half-back for Warrington, received a one-game suspension initially for a shoulder charge during a play-off defeat against St Helens. However, his ban was doubled after an unsuccessful first appeal. Hoping to overturn the decision, Williams appealed again, but the new three-person tribunal upheld the ban.

As a result, the 28-year-old has been withdrawn from the England squad. It is yet to be seen whether coach Shaun Wane will replace Williams in the squad or select a new captain for the three-Test series, which begins in St Helens on Sunday. This series holds significant historical importance as it marks Tonga’s first international rugby league series against England, with Tonga being the first Pacific Islands nation to tour for a full international series.

Williams initially faced a one-match ban for a Grade B shoulder charge during Warrington’s 16-8 defeat against St Helens in the eliminator play-offs. However, after his first appeal was deemed “frivolous” by the independent Operational Rules Tribunal, the ban was increased to two games. Despite the ongoing appeal process, Williams was included in the squad to face Tonga, pending the outcome of his second appeal. Unfortunately, the three-person On-Field Operational Rules Appeals Tribunal rejected his appeal, confirming the continuation of the two-game ban.

The absence of George Williams will undoubtedly be felt by the England squad, and it remains to be seen how coach Shaun Wane will adjust the team composition in his absence. With the series against Tonga being of great significance, both teams will be eager to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.

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Overall, George Williams’ absence from the upcoming Tests against Tonga presents a significant setback for the England squad. However, both teams will undoubtedly strive to put on an excellent display of rugby league and make history in this highly anticipated series.