Morley likely to escape ban despite drink-drive shame

The Rugby Football League says it is unlikely to suspend Adrian Morley as a result of his drink-driving conviction last month.

Morley was banned from driving for three years and ordered to do 40 hours of community service after being caught over the limit in Salford - just three weeks after playing for Great Britain in the Think! Road Safety Test series against Australia.

The RFL is holding an investigation into the circumstances and reports from Australia, where Morley plays for the Sydney Roosters, have suggested he could receive a six-month worldwide playing ban for bringing the game into disrepute.

However, in a statement the RFL said: "It looks extremely unlikely that Adrian Morley will be subject to any kind of suspension."

St Helens are expected to name a new captain this week after Chris Joynt's decision to stand down. Paul Sculthorpe is favourite to take over.

Richard Whiting scored the clinching try against his former club as Hull beat Featherstone Rovers 24-6 in a friendly fixture yesterday.