Phoenix Crossland handed four-match ban over Nathan Cleary tackle

Newcastle hooker Phoenix Crossland has been handed a four-match ban by the NRL judiciary for the hip-drop tackle that broke Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary's left leg during the preliminary final.

He has apologised for taking the focus off the decider this week, during 85 minutes of evidence.

Crossland will not only miss the grand final against the Roosters, but also the majority of the World Cup for New Zealand.

Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explained further.

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