The decision on whether a player should be charged with misconduct is made by the Match Review Panel (the “Panel”).

The Panel is made up of the Compliance Manager (who chairs the Panel) and usually 3 side members drawn from people with appropriate expertise (such as former players, referees and coaches).

In relation to each round of Super League Matches (or Challenge Cup Matches involving Super League teams), each match is reviewed in full by a member of the Panel to identify incidents which should be considered by the Panel. These incidents are then considered by the Panel on the Monday morning following that Round and the Panel decide what action should be taken in relation to the relevant player(s).

In relation to each round of Championship Matches, Northern Rail Cup Matches or Challenge Cup Matches solely involving Championship teams, the Panel meet on the Thursday following the Round in question and consider any incidents that have been reported by Match Officials or otherwise brought to the attention of the Panel.

If a Club wishes to bring any incidents of alleged misconduct to the attention of the Panel they must notify the Compliance Manager by: (a) in the case of Super League Players, no later than 10.00am on the first working day after the incident; (b) in the case of Championship Players, no later than 12.00 noon on the Wednesday following the day on which the incident took place.

For a detailed description of how the RFL's Disciplinary process works, please see below document to download the On Field Compliance & Sentencing Guidelines.