Rules is Rules
Jack Salter fell foul of the controversial new rule that states your cards are mucked if you are not at the table when the first card comes off the deck.
Vehemently opposed by a number of players, most notably and vocally, Daniel Negranu, the rule is nevertheless in place and strictly enforced.
Salter was chatting to a friend while a hand played out at his table and was caught on the hop as the next deal commenced. He was in early position and was way too late to play the hand as his second card reached his empty seat.
The dealer insisted he surrender the cards, but before he did Salter flashed the bottom card, the 
, and immediately sheepishly apologised as the dealer exposed the card to the rest of the table.
“Probably pocket kings.” He reflected ruefully. Isn't it always?
No grumbling from the other players and Paul Fevers raised from the small blind and was met by a fold.