The New South Wales enforcer Greg Bird could be suspended for the first two State of Origin games following his ugly tackle on Jason Nightingale in the Kangaroos' loss to the Kiwis.
The Titans forward Greg Bird. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Bird could be sidelined for up to eight matches for the tackle, after being hit with a grade two dangerous throw charge by the match review committee.
Due to the Gold Coast forward's considerable judiciary record the charge carries with it a six-week ban if the Australian representative takes the early guilty plea.
However if he decides to fight the ban at the judiciary and loses he will be banned for eight matches.
A six-week suspension will rub Bird out of the opening Origin game in Sydney on May 27 and the Titans' round nine, 10, 12, 13 and 14 fixtures, with the club enjoying a bye week in round 11.
That would make Bird eligible for Origin II in Melbourne on June 17.
But an eight-week suspension would also rule Bird out of Origin II in Melbourne on June 17 and the Titans' round 15 match with the Warriors, making him eligible for Origin III in Brisbane on July 8.
The Kangaroos back-rower Sam Thaiday is also set for a week's holiday for his crusher tackle on Kiwis forward Martin Taupau.
The Brisbane star was handed a grade one dangerous contact head/neck charge and will earn a week's ban with the early guilty plea.
The same penalty applies if he fights the charge and loses.
