COUGARS will be without their captain for their opening League One game of the season at home to Workington.

Josh Tonks was handed a one-game suspension last night by the RFL disciplinary panel after being charged with a grade A reckless strike with the shoulder following an incident in the 25th minute of the Brendon Rawlins Testimonial Match victory over Leeds Rhinos.

Being without the influential second-rower is obviously a blow for Cougars, who were drawn away to North Wales Crusaders in last night's Challenge Cup third round draw.

Along with Ritchie Hawkyard, he had been rested at half-time in last Sunday's friendly at Bradford Bulls but must now wait an extra game to make his competitive bow as Keighley's captain having taken over from the retired James Feather.

Cougars could also be without new signing Dan Parker, who suffered a hand/arm injury against Bulls.