Bulldogs player Jacob Preston’s aspirations to be selected for the NSW Blues squad, led by Laurie Daley, have taken a significant hit following a severe ban due to a crusher tackle. The backrower, who has been in remarkable form, was handed a grade one charge after the incident involving Titans captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui. Consequently, he faces a three-game suspension, which could extend to four weeks if the Bulldogs decide to contest the charge and fail at the judiciary.
Preston’s potential selection for the Blues, set to be announced after round 12, looks increasingly uncertain, as this suspension may prevent him from playing in the lead-up to the announcement. He was sent off during the match on Sunday, leaving the Bulldogs to finish the game with just 12 players.
Referee Todd Smith noted that the concern with Preston’s tackle was that his grip applied pressure to the back of Fa’asuamaleaui’s neck while he was losing his balance. As Preston left the field, he appeared frustrated, while his teammate Stephen Crichton attempted to appeal to Smith regarding the decision.
Preston was seen as a strong candidate for the Blues squad alongside his teammate Jacob Kiraz. This penalty adds to the challenges facing Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo, who is already managing without key players Sitili Tupouniua, Josh Curran, and Max King due to their own suspensions.