Kaufusi set for suspension

The NRL is set to suspend Felise Kaufusi for next week’s opening State of Origin match.

The video review panel has handed the Dolphins’ second rower a grade-two careless high tackle charge out of last night’s 24-16 loss to the Storm.

The harsher level of charge means Kaufusi would get three weeks with an early guilty plea, or four weeks if he fights the ban and loses.

Despite being sin binned for the incident, Kaufusi did not receive a grade-one charge that would have given him a fine only and left him free to play for Queensland.

Dolphins’ coach Wayne Bennett last night brought attention to the fact that NSW incumbent Jarome Luai received a grade-one charge for handling a match official on Thursday night, that will allow him to play for the Blues if selected.

However Kaufusi has not been so lucky, and will have to decide tomorrow whether to try to fight to downgrade the charge in a bid to play in the Origin opener on May 31.

Kenny Bromwich also received a grade-one contrary conduct charge from the match but will cop a fine only.

The Dolphins now prepare to host the Dragons at Kayo Stadium on Thursday night.