Crossland faces judiciary after Cleary injury tackle

Phoenix Crossland's hopes of playing in the grand final have been dealt a significant blow after he was referred to the NRL judiciary for a tackle that broke Nathan Cleary's leg.

The Newcastle hooker was sent off during the Knights' thrilling preliminary final win over the Penrith Panthers on Sunday and the match review committee referred him straight to the judiciary.

Cleary's injury and Crossland's send-off

Crossland landed on Cleary's lower left leg as the Panthers superstar took on the line in the 36th minute at Stadium Australia and was wrapped up high by Knights back rower Francis Manuleleua.

The injury was immediately visible, and Manuleleua quickly signalled for medical attention.

As Cleary was receiving medical attention, including painkillers via the famed green whistle, replays on the big screen prompted Penrith fans and players to urge referee Gerard Sutton to send Crossland off.

Sutton called out Crossland and explained the incident in detail to him and captain Kalyn Ponga.