Steve Matai will miss New Zealand's pivotal match with Papua New Guinea after receiving a one-match ban.
Centre banned after high tackle in opening match
Steve Matai will miss New Zealand's pivotal match with Papua New Guinea on Saturday after receiving a one-match ban.
Matai was charged on Monday after being put on report for his 13th minute hit on Kangaroos loose forward Paul Gallen in the World Cup Group A clash and New Zealand officials have decided not to appeal against his suspension.
The verdict comes as an unwelcome, if not needed respite for the Manly Sea Eagles back, who suffered thumb and shoulder injuries in Sunday's 30-6 loss to the Kangaroos.
The Kiwis will now have to find a replacement for Matai for their next decisive match against the Kumuls on the Gold Coast.
PNG are also searching for points after losing their opening match of the tournament 32-22 to England in Townsville last Saturday.
