Leniu's Eels debut delayed by fresh abuse investigation
Fresh investigation into alleged abuse of an NRL official could increase his existing two-game ban.
Spencer Leniu is under investigation for allegedly abusing an NRL official outside the Samoan dressing room after the team's match. The 26-year-old had tried to bring friends into the restricted area, but they were denied entry without proper accreditation.
Leniu was already banned for two games for comments made to referee Adam Gee during the same match. The Eels' new recruit will miss the opening two rounds of the season.
This includes their Las Vegas clash against Titans. If the fresh investigation results in additional sanction, his ban could grow longer.
Eels chief executive Mike Rush has called the timing unfair. He argues Leniu should be allowed to serve games in pre-season instead.
- 26 years old
- Leniu's age
- 2 games
- Current ban length
- 44-12 loss to Australia
- Match score
- Las Vegas clash vs Titans
- Fixture missed
Why it mattersLeniu's return date remains uncertain as the season starts.
AustraliaLeniu's absence creates a gap in the Eels' squad depth as they begin their campaign against one of the NRL's top teams in a neutral venue.
