Inquiry continues after punch fractured prop's eye socket

Mika Mafi. File photo
Mika Mafi. File photo
Police are still investigating an incident in an Otago Whalers game that left veteran prop Mika Mafi with a fractured eye socket.

Mafi was punched by Counties-Manukau player Tahi Baggaley during a premiership game at Forsyth Barr Stadium on September 15.

The incident happened 30 minutes into the game and Baggaley was sent off.

New Zealand Rugby League has declined to comment on the judiciary process.

"We don’t typically disclose any outcomes of the hearings," a spokeswoman said.

"Especially as parties have the right of appeal. In some instances this can mean they are ongoing, which again is not something we comment on."

NZRL’s judicial guidelines indicate the penalty for punching someone in the head would start at a four-week ban.

If the offending is considered to be at the upper level, a ban of eight or more weeks can be imposed.

It is very rare for an on-field sporting incident to be dealt with through the criminal courts.