Leeds Rhinos coach Richard Agar has backed the clampdown on high tackles but warned rugby league could be heading for a totalitarian state if clubs are deterred from challenging sanctions.
Agar was speaking out after a Rugby Football League independent tribunal increased a ban on second-row forward James Bentley from three to four matches for what it described as a “frivolous” challenge to the punishment by Leeds.
Bentley was shown a red card for a high tackle on stand-off Gareth Widdop during the Rhinos’ opening Super League game against Warrington Wolves on Saturday.
