Wasps' Bok gets three-week ban
Wasps' Springbok back row forward Ashley Johnson has been suspended for three weeks, following a disciplinary fearing in Dublin on Thursday.
Johnson was cited by match citing commissioner Alberto Recaldini (Italy), for a dangerous tackle on the Leinster wing Dave Kearney.
The incidents took place in the opening minute of the European Champions Cup, Round Six game between Wasps and Leinster at the Ricoh Arena and was in contravention of Law 10.4(i).
Johnson was shown a yellow card by referee Jerome Garces (France), following the incident.
Law 10.4(i) Tackling the jumper in the air. A player must not tackle an opponent jumping for the ball in open play.
The judicial officer, Simon Thomas (Wales), heard submissions and evidence from Johnson, who pleaded guilty to the offence, from Johnson's legal representative, Shane Sibbel, and from the Wasps Head of Rugby Operations, Kevin Harman.
Submissions and evidence were also presented by the tournament disciplinary officer.
In upholding the citing complaint, the judicial officer determined that the offence was reckless and warranted a red card, and that it was in the mid-range (six weeks) of World Rugby's sanctions for offences of this nature.
As there were no aggravating factors, he reduced the suspension by the maximum amount of three weeks due to the player's guilty plea, remorse, good conduct during the hearing and clean disciplinary record.
The judicial officer then imposed a suspension of three weeks.
Johnson is free to play on Monday, February 16.
Both the player and EPCR have the right to appeal the decision.
