Sharks centre to miss big derbies
DISCIPLINARY UPDATE: Sharks centre Marius Louw has been banned from Super Rugby for three weeks after admitting to making a dangerous tackle last weekend.
The incident occurred during a 28-14 win for the Sharks over the Melbourne Rebels in Durban and the suspension means he will miss matches against the Bulls, Lions and Jaguares.
A Super Rugby statement said the foul fell in the six-week ban range, but the prompt admittance of guilt by Louw and his good judicial record were mitigating factors.
Louw usually plays off the bench for the Sharks with Springboks Lukhanyo Am and Andre Esterhuizen the first choice centres of coach Robert du Preez.
Foul Play Review Committee Chairman Adam Casselden ruling:
“Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Adrian Montzinger, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the citing under Law 9.13.”
“With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a mid-range entry point of six weeks due to World Rugby instructions that dictate any incident of foul play involving contact with the head must start at a mid-range level. However, taking into account mitigating factors including the player’s good judicial record and the fact the Player has pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity, the Foul Play Review Committee reduced the suspension to three weeks.”
“The player is therefore suspended for 3 weeks, up to and including Saturday 13 April 2019.”
AFP & SANZAAR
