The RFL has confirmed that no further action will be taken on Leeds Rhinos full-back Zak Hardaker following an investigation into allegations of homophobic abuse made on a St Helens player during a match in late August.
The game’s governing body said in a statement: “Details of the investigation were presented to the RFL Match Review Panel which concluded that there was insufficient evidence for charges to be brought.”
It has taken the RFL three weeks to come to a decision on the matter. During that time, Leeds chairman Gary Hetherington claimed the full-back was the subject of a RFL “witch hunt” (a sentiment coach Brian McDermott echoed), while Hardaker himself has slammed the unprofessional nature of the investigation.
The 22-year-old, who was voted into Super League’s Dream Team yesterday, was set to face an eight match ban if found guilty of the offence.
