Wigan Warriors launch Luke Thompson appeal as England hope to clear star forward

[josie andrews]

Wigan Warriors are appealing the suspension handed to England star Luke Thompson as they look to free him to play in the Test series opener against Samoa.

Thompson, who has enjoyed an exceptional season on return to Super League, received a Grade B dangerous contact charge for a late hit on Hull KR captain Elliot Minchella.

As a result, Thompson would be unavailable for England's opening game against the Samoans next week but the Warriors have opted to appeal in the hope of allowing him to play in the contest. The ban would, ultimately, have no impact on the Warriors, but they are keen to ensure Thompson can feature for Shaun Wane's side.

It will naturally draw comparisons to last year, when George Williams memorably was handed an extra match suspension on grounds of a frivolous appeal, meaning that he missed not one, but two of England's games against Tonga, leaving Wane without his Test captain

The hearing will take place on Tuesday tonight as well as Peta Hiku's, who has been handed a Grade E charge for making contact with a dangerous player. As a result, he is set to miss New Zealand's Pacific Championships campaign, unless the charge is overturned or downgraded.

Hiku made history by becoming the first player since Tommy Leuluai to be selected for the Kiwis while playing in Super League, though the Hull KR ace now is at threat of missing out

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