Saia Fainga’a suspended for two weeks
Australian hooker Saia Fainga’a was suspended for two weeks on Sunday after being found guilty of a dangerous tackle during the Tri Nations match between South Africa and Australia at Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein on Saturday.
Fainga’a was cited by SANZAR Citing Commissioner Steve Hinds for an alleged tip tackle on Springbok replacement lock Flip van der Merwe in the 69th minute of the match. Australian won the Test 41-39.
Fainga’a pleaded guilty to the charge.
Judicial Officer Nigel Hampton reviewed video evidence of the incident and took testimony from the player. He noted the International Rugby Board’s stance on the seriousness of such incidents but regarded the tackle as reckless rather than intentional.
Fainga’a’s guilty plea, his expression of remorse and otherwise impeccable record was taken into account in passing sentence.
The Judicial Officer regarded the offence as at the lower entry-level of sanctions and, having taken into account all factors, suspended Fainga’a for two weeks. He will be suspended from all rugby until September 19.
Issued by SANZAR
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