Newcastle Knights hooker Phoenix Crossland is facing a grand final suspension after receiving the first send-off for a hip-drop tackle in National Rugby League history. The historic incident occurred during a preliminary final against the Penrith Panthers at Accor Stadium, leaving Penrith star Nathan Cleary with a severe lower-leg injury.
The tackle happened in the 35th minute of the match when Crossland brought Cleary down near the try-line. Referee Gerard Sutton reviewed the incident alongside the bunker and Knights captain Kalyn Ponga before issuing the ultimate on-field penalty.
“[Initially] he’s up high. He makes a definite action so [he] twists, comes down on the leg with weight. It’s extreme risk of serious injury. You’re off,” Sutton told Crossland on the field.
The send-off forced Newcastle to play with 12 men for the final 45 minutes of the contest. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the resilient Knights managed to shut out the Panthers in the second half, securing a stunning 22-14 victory and booking their first grand final appearance in 25 years.
Cleary was evacuated from the field via medicab and taken directly to the hospital. Medical staff later confirmed that the four-time premiership winner suffered a compound fracture and dislocation of his left ankle. Panthers coach and father Ivan Cleary revealed after the match that his son was already playing through a separate stress-related fracture in his other foot.
Crossland looked visibly devastated in the sheds following the match. Under NRL judiciary guidelines, the hooker is expected to face a significant suspension that threatens to rule him out of the upcoming grand final and potentially impact his availability for international fixtures.
Knights coach Justin Holbrook addressed the situation with reporters after the final whistle, noting the emotional toll on the team’s regular No. 9.
“He was disappointed, we’ve got to try and get him upbeat,” Holbrook said. “He’s an emotional guy. He’s been so great for us every week this year. Hopefully Nathan’s okay.”
The match review committee is scheduled to release its latest judiciary charge sheet, where Crossland will officially learn the length of his suspension.
