Panthers’ finals selection dilemma as Jack Cogger cops three-match ban

Penrith are in for a NRL finals selection dilemma after key addition Jack Cogger received a three-match ban for his high shot on Tyran Wishart.

Just when the streaky Panthers looked to have found their best option at five-eighth, Cogger received a grade-two charge that rules him out until after the first week of finals.

Unless Cogger can plead his case at the judiciary and win, the Panthers will be forced to recall out-of-favour Blaize Talagi or Perth-bound Jack Cole.

Cogger was sent to the sin bin after rushing out of the line to hit Wishart late in the Panthers’ 22-14 win on Thursday night.

He has already been suspended once this season for a similar shot, missing two weeks on that occasion for rushing out and hitting South Sydney’s Ashton Ward.

If he unsuccessfully challenges his charge at the judiciary, Cogger will miss an additional game, potentially ruling him out for the remainder of the season.

Cogger also received a $3000 fine for a shot on Storm forward Angus Hinchey earlier in the clash.

But the 29-year-old’s suspension is a far bigger blow for a Penrith side fighting to lock up a top-two finish.

Cogger has been a valuable addition to the Panthers’ starting side in recent weeks, proving a more assured defensive presence than Talagi.

His ball-playing has also helped take pressure off halfback Nathan Cleary, as it did during Penrith’s comeback victory in the 2023 grand final.

But Cogger’s illegal tackle has now opened the door for either Talagi or Cole, one of whom is set to start in the halves for next week’s clash with Canterbury.