Senior may face disrepute case over rant

The Rugby League is considering whether to charge the Leeds centre Keith Senior with bringing the game into disrepute after the World Club Challenge defeat by Melbourne.

The Test veteran, who conceded a crucial penalty for a verbal broadside at referee Richard Silverwood continued the attack afterwards by accusing him of arrogance. "I'm sick of him," Senior said. "He's arrogant. A lot of players don't like playing under him. He likes to be the centre of attention and he got his way tonight." Later on Sunday night, Senior's club put out a statement from him apologising for his outburst. "Unfortunately, I let my emotions get the better of me after a draining clash," he said.

The apology might save Senior from a fine or suspension, although RFL compliance manager Blake Solly is still studying exactly what was said.

The referees' director, Stuart Cummings, is to speak to the Rhinos' coach, Brian McClennan, this week about any concerns over Silverwood's performance, presumably including the slowing of the play-the-ball that enraged Senior.

Leeds are likely to be without their captain, Kevin Sinfield, who was forced off after half an hour at Elland Road with a dead leg, for their match against Harlequins on Friday.

The Wrexham-based Crusaders are preparing to announce the signing of the 35-year-old former Wales rugby union captain, Gareth Thomas. The club described an announcement as "imminent". He would be the highest-profile recruit so far for a club that has already exceeded expectations by winning two of its first four games.

There is to be no action against the Castleford coach, Terry Matterson, who described the video referee Steve Ganson's decision to award Hull KR their winning try on Saturday as "disgraceful".