Jackson Hastings escaped any disciplinary action after the RFL Match Review Panel cleared him of an alleged offence during St Helens’ 40‑10 rout of Bradford Bulls on Saturday. Hastings placed a hand on concussion‑stricken forward Will Gardiner as the latter was stretchered off, prompting speculation of a charge under the league’s rule against contacting injured opponents.

Gardiner suffered a serious concussion and was taken to hospital but is now recovering at home, easing concerns for the Bulls. The panel’s decision mirrors earlier cases this season, such as Semi Valemei’s three‑match ban for moving a teammate, underscoring the strict enforcement of the contact rule.

St Helens forward Alex Walmsley received five penalty points for a dangerous ‘chicken wing’ tackle and was fined, while teammate Shane Wright also faced a fine after a sin‑bin incident. Both penalties add to the club’s disciplinary tally ahead of the high‑stakes derby against Wigan Warriors at Magic Weekend.

With Hastings cleared, he remains available for selection as St Helens prepare for the Magic Weekend clash. The ruling removes a potential lineup disruption and allows the Saints to field their strongest squad against Wigan, a match that could influence the top‑four race as the season reaches its final stretch.