Luke will also miss New Zealand’s opening Four Nations game against Australia

The star was put on report for a lifting tackle in the preliminary final on Williams, who spoke in support of Luke in a bid to get him off the charge. 

But the three-man judiciary found the 27-year-old guilty and issued a two-game ban.

The panel of former players Chris McKenna, Mick Vella and Mal Cochrane were given little choice on the call after a crackdown on lifting tackles in the wake of the Alex McKinnon’s spinal injury in April.

NRL judiciary chairman Paul Conlon knew the magnitude of their call. 

“We all know what that means – it’s very unfortunate that you will miss the grand final,” he said. 

Luke took the blow on the chin and Apisai Koroisau will now likely get a massive chance. 

“Not the result we were after. Can only feel stronger for my brothers that will take the battlefield. Will live to return everyone’s messages and thank you so much for sending your love. Now to focus on our game this weekend. SSTID (South Sydney till I die),” he said on Instagram. 

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