Dolphins forward Felise Kaufusi is free to play in Sunday's NRL league showdown for the eighth and last play-off spot against Newcastle

He's been successful in downgrading a careless tackle charge for a high shot on Broncos halfback Adam Reynolds.

Kaufusi will instead pay a $1800 fine.

Canberra forward Elliott Whitehead has played his last game in the NRL - he's copped a three-match ban for a hip-drop tackle that ended Roosters hooker Brandon Smith's season.

The Englishman is headed back to the Super League after nine seasons with the Raiders.

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