The NRL has issued clubs with a warning about the use of arm strappings after hitting Newcastle with a $5,000 fine on Tuesday.

The Knights were punished after Bulldogs players complained that the grip pads worn by forward Richard Fa'aso scratched some of their players during Saturday's semi-final clash at ANZ Stadium.

Following the complaints, the touch judge approached the Knights at half-time and the offending material was removed.

The Knights told the NRL, the pads, which are used to assist one-handed carries of the ball, had never caused any harm before.

NRL chief operating officer Graham Annesley said referees have now been instructed to pay close attention to any taping around the arms of players for the rest of the season.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP