Hull KR’s Pangai Jr has been handed a six-match ban by the RFL

Hull KR forward Tevita Pangai Jr has been banned for six matches and fined by the RFL for gouging.

The incident, involving Jack Connor of Leeds Rhinos, took place at the time 34-8 defeat by the Robins at Headingley on Friday.

The 30-year-old Pangai Junior will not be available until Hull KR’s home fixture against the Catalan Dragons on August 13.

The reigning Super League champions have not confirmed whether they will appeal the decision.

The former NRL prop, who played 23 times for the Catalan Dragons in 2025, joined the Robins in May on a deal until the end of the season.

The Tonga international’s suspension will begin with a derby against Hull FC in Everton’s Magic Weekend fixture at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday.

He is one of four players who will sit out the game from a total of 22 charges announced by the Rugby Football League on Monday.

York Knights’ Sam Wood and Catalans’ Guillermo Aispuro-Bichette were banned for two matches, both for dangerous contact, while Aispuro-Bichette’s teammate Frank Maria received a one-match ban for contact with the head.

St Helens’ Jackson Hastings will not be penalized for touching injured Bradford Bulls player Will Gardiner while checking his opponent’s welfare.