Leeds Rhinos' Carl Ablett loses appeal against ban

CARNEGIE CHALLENGE CUP SEMI-FINAL
Venue: Galpharm Stadium Date: Saturday, 7 August Kick-off: 1430 BST
Coverage: Live on BBC 1 and BBC Sport website; full commentary on BBC Radio Leeds and BBC Radio Merseyside

Ablett has played in the Rhinos' last 12 league and cup matches

Leeds second row Carl Ablett has lost his appeal against a three-match ban that rules him out of the Challenge Cup semi-final against St Helens.

The 24-year-old was found guilty of recklessly striking Wigan full-back Sam Tomkins with his forearm during the Rhinos' 26-12 defeat last Friday.

Ablett was fined £300 by the Rugby Football League's disciplinary committee on Tuesday.

He was also ordered to pay £200 for the cost of the appeal.

In addition to Saturday's semi-final, Ablett will miss Leeds' next two Super League matches - against Castleford and Catalans Dragons - but will be available to play in the Challenge Cup final on 28 August should the Rhinos progress.