Hastings gets three-game ban for punching opponent

Jackson Hastings preparing to throw a pass during St Helens' game with CastlefordImage source, SWPix
Image caption,

Jackson Hastings joined St Helens in the close season from NRL side Newcastle Knights

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St Helens scrum-half Jackson Hastings has been handed a three-match ban following his red card against Castleford Tigers.

Hastings was sent off for punching Castleford forward Tyler Dupree just before half-time of a game that Saints eventually won 36-12.

But the Australian, who has been captain in the absence of the injured Matty Lees, will now miss the final three games of the regular season at home to Leeds Rhinos, away to Leigh Leopards and then at home to Hull KR.

Saints are seventh in Super League, two points adrift of Hull KR as they try to maintain their record of reaching the play-offs in every season of summer rugby.

As well as Hastings, Bradford Bulls forward Loghan Lewis was banned for one game for a head contact in his side's heavy defeat at Leigh Leopards.

He will be suspended for the bottom side's trip to Toulouse Olympique on Saturday (20:00 BST).