Melbourne Storm’s star dummy half, Harry Grant, has been acquitted of dangerous contact following his appearance at the NRL judiciary. Grant, who was facing a Grade 1 charge after an incident in the match against the Cronulla Sharks where he made contact with Daniel Atkinson’s legs while kicking, saw the contact as marginal. Despite being penalized and sin-binned during the game, Grant and his coach Craig Bellamy emphasized the need for consistency in post-match discussions. The following day, he faced the charge but opted to contest it rather than accept a $1000 fine.
During the hearing, Grant’s defense highlighted that he wasn’t focused on Atkinson but was instead tracking the ball after the kick. Despite the potential risk of a higher fine, Grant chose to challenge the charge. Ultimately, a three-member judiciary panel convened at NRL headquarters and unanimously ruled him not guilty. This decision underscores a clearer understanding of what actions constitute such charges and potential sin-binnings.
Harry Grant has been found not guilty.
— Brad Walter (@BradWalterSport) May 14, 2024
Recent incidents have brought attention to the pressure on kickers in the game, with concerns raised about player safety and the balance of maintaining pressure on kickers. Grant, now cleared of the charge, is set to play for the Storm in their upcoming match against the Parramatta Eels during Magic Round as they aim to return to winning form.
