Kiwis star cops ban after chaotic World Cup moment
New Zealand rugby league player Ronaldo Mulitalo and Fiji's Brandon Wakeham have both received one-match bans following a violent altercation during a World Cup match. The incident occurred during a lopsided 78-0 victory for New Zealand, which saw multiple disciplinary issues throughout the game.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing disciplinary challenges in professional rugby league and the impact of player conduct on tournament progression.
- 12.51am . First published October 31, 2026 - 7.55am
shares Share article New Zealand winger Ronaldo Mulitalo will miss the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals after being slapped with a one-match ban for an ugly high shot that infuriated Brandon Wakeham and led to chaos on Saturday afternoon.
Fiji’s halfback Wakeham was also given a one-match ban for punching Mulitalo in the head in retaliation, charged with striking.
Ronaldo Mulitalo is sent off. NRL Imagery
Mulitalo and Wakeham were both sent off in the 52nd minute of a game won by a rampaging New Zealand side 78-0.
The polarising Kiwis flyer was charged with a grade two high tackle and can accept a one-match ban with an early guilty plea, which would allow him to return for the RLWC final should New Zealand advance past the semis.
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