FEATHERSTONE Rovers star Dane Chisholm looks set to miss the Betfred Championship season opener against York City Knights after reportedly being handed an eight-match ban for discriminatory language.

The charge against Chisholm, which is being appealed by Featherstone, relates to a match against Oldham RLFC in August.

It is claimed that he used discriminatory language against an Oldham member of staff, with the Daily Star reporting that Chisholm has been banned for eight matches.

In a club statement, Featherstone said: "Featherstone Rovers can confirm that Dane Chisholm has been subject to an RFL Operational Rules Tribunal regarding an accusation of discriminatory language, which was made by an Oldham RLFC staff member at the game played on 29th August 2021.

"Dane strongly denies the accusation. We stand by Dane and are appealing the decision.

"Whilst we work with Dane and legal counsel on the appeal process, we will not be making any further comment at this time."

Should Chisholm's ban be upheld by the RFL, he would miss the clash with York at the LNER Community Stadium on Monday, January 31.