Richie Mathers banned for breaching betting rules

London Broncos full-back Richie Mathers has been suspended from all rugby league for six months after breaching betting rules.

The 31-year-old was found guilty by a Rugby Football League independent tribunal of providing inside information on his side's Challenge Cup tie against Leigh on March 20, which they lost 64-12.

Mathers, who is in his first season with the Broncos, has said that he is not happy with the outcome.

"I totally refute the RFL tribunal decision," he wrote on Twitter.

"I want to make it absolutely clear I have never had any involvement in betting or encouraging betting by providing inside information within Rugby League.

"I am currently considering various legal avenues and have no further comment to make at this time. An official statement will follow in due course."

Mathers's suspension will run until January 28.