RFL decide not to charge Hardaker

The 22-year-old Leeds full-back served a five-match ban in the summer after being found guilty of homophobic abuse of referee James Child and was investigated over claims that he made similar comments aimed towards St Helens forward Mark Flanagan last month.

However, in a statement, the Rugby Football League said: “The RFL can confirm that no further action will be taken...details of the investigation were presented to the RFL Match Review Panel which concluded that there was insufficient evidence for charges to be brought.”

Hardaker is clear to line up for the Rhinos in Saturday’s elimination play-off tie against Catalan Dragons at Headingley.

St Helens will be without forward Alex Walmsley for Friday’s qualifying play-off tie against Castleford because of suspension, but he will be available for the rest of the Super League play-offs.

The former Batley prop was given a one-match ban after being found guilty of a grade B careless high tackle on Huddersfield scrum-half Luke Robinson during his side’s 17-16 defeat by the Giants last Friday.

Sheffield Eagles halfback Pat Walker has signed a one-year extension to stay at the club.