Rhinos suffer Ablett suspension for Huddersfield match

Ablett was last night handed a one-match ban and a £300 fine after being found guilty of dangerous play when he appeared in front of the Rugby Football League’s disciplinary committee.

Ablett was accused of “using his body forcefully to bend or apply unnecessary pressure to the head, neck and spine” of Hull KR forward Rhys Lovegrove during the Rhinos’ 38-28 defeat at Craven Park on Saturday.

Hull coach Richard Agar has confirmed an interest in centre Martin Gleeson but insists no offer has been made and no move is imminent.

The 30-year-old Great Britain international was released from the 18 months left on his Wigan contract just over a week ago and has had informal talks with Agar about his next move. “At the moment there’s nothing to report,” said Agar. “There’s been a bit of dialogue but there are plenty of factors to be taken into consideration around Martin and what he wants to do next.

“When he decides that, that will probably be the time to sit down and talk to him.

“Martin and his representatives know where we are if they want to have a chat.

“We’d certainly be interested in having a chat but at this moment in time there is nothing happening.”

According to reports in Australia, Gleeson’s agent, Andy Clarke, has engaged NRL manager Steve Gillis to source an Australian deal for his client and, in the meantime, he could be interested in securing a short-term contract in Super League.

Wakefield are also thought to be keen and, unlike Hull, have plenty of scope within their salary cap.

Agar added: “We’d have to have a look at that. It’s fair to say we haven’t stacks of room.”

* Halifax-born prop Ben Kavanagh has become the first player to be handed a Super League contract by Widnes.

Widnes have taken Wigan youngsters Logan Tomkins and Dom Crosby on a dual registration. Tomkins is the younger brother of England internationals Sam and Joel and has yet to play in Super League.

* Former Great Britain international Dennis Goodwin has died aged 81. He signed for Barrow at 17 and played for them in two Challenge Cup finals before going on to play for Leeds and York.

Goodwin won five caps and went on Great Britain’s 1958 tour to Australia.

* St Helens have signed New Zealand international and World Cup winner Lance Hohaia as a direct replacement for rugby union-bound Kyle Eastmond.