High tackle ban casts doubt over Maroons star for Origin opener

Cowboys lock Reuben Cotter could miss the State of Origin series opener after he was charged with a careless high tackle in Magic Round.

The Maroons forward was pinged by the match review committee for a high shot on Warriors second-rower Marata Niukore during the Cowboys’ narrow loss on Saturday night. 

Because it is his second offence, Cotter has been banned for two matches and risks a third game if he contests the charge at the judiciary.

The Cowboys have just two more games before the Origin opener in Brisbane on May 28 as they have the bye in the round before the game. 

Cotter is all but certain to cop the two-game punishment, which will mean he will not play again, if picked by Queensland coach Billy Slater, between now and Origin I.

Souths prop Tevita Tatola ($1000-$1500) was also charged for a high tackle in his team’s loss to Newcastle.

Sharks five-eighth Braydon Trindall ($1000-$1500 for dangerous contact), Roosters rake Zach Dockar-Clay ($750-$1000 for a high tackle) and Dolphins forward Kulikefu Finaefeuaki  ($1000-$1500 for a high tackle) are also facing fines in what has been a relatively drama-free Magic Round.