Wigan Warriors clinched the Challenge Cup final against Hull Kingston Rovers, but the celebration was marred by forward Sam Walters receiving a seven-match ban. Walters became the first player dismissed in a final since 1993 after a lift tackle on Robins hooker Bill Leyland was ruled dangerous. The red card came in the closing stages of the 28‑12 victory.

The sanction follows a recent disciplinary record. Less than two months earlier Walters served a three‑match suspension and was docked 18 penalty points for a head‑butting incident in Wigan’s quarter‑final win over Wakefield Trinity. After a successful appeal the penalty points fell to 4.5, but the Rugby Football League match review panel added a 35-point penalty and an undisclosed fine for the Leyland tackle.

Half‑back Harry Smith also drew a one‑match suspension after making head contact with Robins winger Tom Davies. With Walters out for nearly two months, Wigan lose a crucial key forward ahead of the upcoming Super League run‑in, forcing coach Shaun Wane to reshuffle the pack. The significant disciplinary fallout underscores the league’s strict stance on dangerous play.