Flower fined by Wigan for Grand Final punch

BenFlower

Flower was sent off just two minutes into October's Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford, after an incident that saw the Welshman strike Hohaia in the face with his opponent dazed on the ground.

The prop had been struck in the face by Hohaia moments before hitting back and flooring his opponent, but it was his second punch - when the former New Zealand international lay on the turf - that saw Flower banned for six months by the Rugby Football League (RFL).

While Flower apologised for his role in the incident, he was banned by the RFL for 13 matches after being found guilty of "violent and aggressive punching/punching an off-guard opponent."

Wigan confirmed on Friday that they too had found the player guilty, of gross misconduct, and will be fining Flower 50 per cent of his wages for a six-month period.

Three months of the fine will be suspended and subject to return during the next 12 months, with the 27-year-old also taking part in a community rehabilitation programme during his time out of action.

Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said in a statement: "The Wigan Club has followed RFL protocol fully in conducting internal disciplinary action with Ben Flower following the incident at the Grand Final.

"We were extremely disappointed and angry at the actions of Ben Flower and stand in agreement with the Rugby Football League and the six-month ban from playing which they handed down to Ben last month.

"There is no doubt that the reputation of this great club has been damaged by this incident.

"This significant fine combined with the requirement for community service has been imposed to affirm Wigan's position that this is not the type of behaviour we want or expect from any of our players."

Flower, who will be suspended for two pre-season fixtures, 10 Super League games and the World Club Series clash with Brisbane Broncos, added: "I fully accept this decision taken by Wigan.

"I deeply regret my actions and I am grateful for the support that my club has given me throughout this process.

"It is a relief to reach closure on the incident and I hope to move forward now and rebuild the trust of my club, team-mates and the Wigan fans."

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