Adam Doueihi could miss Lebanon's must-win Rugby League World Cup group game with Ireland after he was sent off for dissent in their loss to New Zealand.
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Doueihi was dismissed in the 60th minute of Sunday's (Monday AEDT) 34-12 loss to the Kiwis by NRL referee Grant Atkins.
Atkins' mic and those of the host broadcasters didn't pick up what Doueihi said, but on Monday in the UK the Wests Tigers playmaker was hit with a grade A charge for the use of foul and/or abusive language towards a match official.
It means the Lebanon international would only miss one game and would be clear to play against Jamaica in their final group fixture.
But given what is at stake - Ireland being Lebanon's closest challenger to finishing second behind New Zealand and getting out of group C - Cedars coach Michael Cheika may consider an appeal.
Doueihi has the right to fight the charge but risks increasing his suspension if the challenge is found to be frivolous.
The 24-year-old has until Tuesday (9pm AEDT) to decide what action to take.
Elsewhere Samoa halfback Anthony Milford looks set to be ruled out of their group game with minnows Greece after hitting England fullback Sam Tomkins in the host nations' 60-6 win.
Australian Associated Press
