Hetherington in dock after RFL comments

It will be heard by an independent operational rules tribunal in a week’s time and surrounds “questioning the motivation and integrity” of an RFL investigation into an incident in his club’s Super League fixture against St Helens played on Friday, August 29.

“Mr Hetherington is charged with a breach of Operational Rule D1.8 (c) (Improper Conduct) by engaging in conduct prejudicial to the interests of the game,” said an RFL statement.

He accused the governing body of conducting a “witchhunt” against Leeds full-back Hardaker after it began a second investigation into alleged homophobic comments made by the England international. No charges were brought.

Castleford Tigers coach Daryl Powell has also been fined £500 – half suspended until the end of next year – after criticising referee James Child following Friday’s play-off defeat at St Helens.

He confirmed as well yesterday that ex-England prop Garreth Carvell – who joined from Hull FC in the summer – will not be offered a contract for 2015.

The 33-year-old, though, is in Wales’s squad for the European Championships for the first time since last representing them during the 2000 World Cup.

Castleford are without Jake Webster (head) for tomorrow’s play-off against Warrington.

Hull KR are chasing two new half-backs after Kris Keating was granted a release less than 12 months into his three-year deal.

The Australian, 25, has struggled since joining from Canterbury Bulldogs and is now free to find a new club in the NRL.

But Hull KR have also just sold stand-off Travis Burns to St Helens, and hooker Josh Hodgson to Canbrerra, so they must now step up recruitment in key areas.