A CHARACTER witness from premiership winning Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has helped Orange CYMS hooker James Wynne avoid suspension at Thursday night’s Group 10 judiciary hearing.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
After a scuffle in back play, Wynne was sent off in the green and golds’ epic 22-20 major semi-final win over Bathurst Panthers.
Video footage of the incident was inconclusive.
While a convoluted report from officials, that wasn’t able to be verified via a phone hook-up, and Robinson’s endorsement of the former French international helped Wynne escape a ban that would have ended his 2016 season at the worst possible time.
He was found not guilty of the striking charge, meaning he’ll play his first Group 10 grand final against Bathurst Panthers or Mudgee Dragons, depending on who wins the preliminary final on Sunday.
“We’re pleased with the outcome,” CYMS president Dave Penny said, the Group 10 grand final to be played at Wade Park on Sunday, September 18.
“Common sense has prevailed. He’s a top bloke, James, the club loves having him and we’re thrilled he’ll be there next Sunday.”
Prior to last Sunday’s dismissal, Wynne also had a clean sheet in a lengthy and decorated playing career that began as a junior in 1980.