NRLW Biting Drama Erupts as Eels Star Referred Straight to Judiciary
In a dramatic turn of events, Parramatta Eels hooker Rueben Cherrington has been referred directly to the NRLW judiciary over an alleged biting incident in the club’s dominant 46-14 win against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Cherrington, currently playing as hooker for the Eels, faces a charge of dangerous contact following the match, after footage showed her mouth coming into contact with Bulldogs forward Holli Wheeler late in the game.
The alleged bite was not reported during the match by the on-field officials, but the NRL’s Match Review Committee picked up the incident on replay the following morning. The matter has caused uproar among fans and pundits, adding to a growing list of biting incidents in the NRLW. Previous cases include Brisbane Broncos winger Ashleigh Werner, who was sent to the judiciary for allegedly biting Roosters winger Jayme Fressard in 2023, resulting in a two-match suspension. Also, St George Illawarra winger Madison Bartlett was banned for one match for a biting offence in 2022.
Cherrington is under contract with the Eels until the end of 2026, meaning any ban could carry over into future seasons. With finals contention still unresolved, this incident threatens more than just a single match suspension—it could impact selection, club momentum, and Cherrington’s reputation. The judiciary will examine the evidence, intent, and context of the contact to determine consequences. Meanwhile, debates over biting, dangerous conduct, on-field discipline, and how quickly incidents are referred to the judiciary continue to intensify across the NRLW.
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