Ben Flower (credit: Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Wigan Warriors prop Ben Flower has been fined 50 per cent of his salary for the six months he is banned, with three of them suspended, and has also been forced to undergo a rehabilitation programme.
Wigan have completed the disciplinary process arising from Ben Flower’s actions at the 2014 Grand Final. The process started immediately after the RFL’s Disciplinary actions but has taken until this week to complete because of pre-planned post-season breaks and holidays.
Flower, who was sent off in the opening minutes of the Grand Final for punching St Helens stand-off Lance Hohaia, has been found guilty of gross misconduct due to violent conduct bringing into disrepute the Wigan club and the game of Rugby League .
In view of the player’s previous record and his remorse, the Wigan club has decided that he be fined 50% of his wages for a period of six months and must undergo a rehabilitation programme involving service with young people in the Community during his banned period as he prepares to rebuild his career.
Three months of the fine will be suspended and subject to return during the next 12 months to his previous good record. This judgement was decided appropriate rather than summary dismissal which was possible from a gross misconduct verdict.Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: “The Wigan club has followed RFL protocol fully in conducting internal disciplinary action with Ben Flower following the incident at the Grand Final.
“We were extremely disappointed and angry at the actions of Ben Flower and stand in agreement with the Rugby Football League and the six month ban from playing which they handed down to Ben last month.
“There is no doubt that the reputation of this great club has been damaged by this incident. This significant fine combined with the requirement for community service has been imposed to affirm Wigan’s position that this is not the type of behaviour we want or expect from any of our players.
“Ben’s action was totally unacceptable in Rugby League but was out of character and one for which he is deeply remorseful. It is our judgement that we should not dismiss him but should punish him financially and then support him through what will be a difficult rehabilitation period and a difficult return to playing.
“Our Rugby General Manager Kris Radlinski, along with Head Coach Shaun Wane and Player Welfare Manager Mick Farrell will now finalise the rehabilitation plan for Ben.”
Ben Flower (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)Ben Flower added: “I fully accept this decision taken by Wigan. I deeply regret my actions and I am grateful for the support that my club has given me throughout this process.
“It is a relief to reach closure on the incident and I hope to move forward now and rebuild the trust of my club, team-mates and the Wigan fans.”
