Ireland star Dan Sheehan has been cited for his clear-out on Tom Lynagh in the third Test between Australia and the British and Irish Lions on Saturday.
The incident was missed by the matchday officials during the game, with Wallabies playmaker Lynagh forced off the pitch and did not return after failing his HIA.
However, he was cited by independent citing commissioner Adrien Menez for an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.20 (a), which reads: “Dangerous play in a ruck or maul: (a) A player must not charge into a ruck or maul. Charging includes any contact made without binding onto another player in the ruck or maul.”
A World Rugby statement has confirmed that the Lions hooker has been suspended for four matches (reduced to three on successful completion of the coaching intervention) for his actions.
The statement added that Sheehan did not believe that his action was an act of foul play and did not accept that the offence warranted a citing.
“In determining the sanction, the Committee noted that in his submissions, the player had not accepted that foul play occurred and did not accept that the offence warranted the citing,” the statement added.
“The Committee reviewed the matter, including submissions and footage, and determined that Sheehan’s actions were contrary to Law 9.20(a) (charging into a ruck or maul). In determining foul play, the Committee found that Sheehan’s actions were reckless.
“The Committee found that he made head contact with the Australian player, that his action amounted to a high degree of danger and that no mitigation applied.
“On the basis of all the evidence before them, the Committee decided that the offending warranted the mandatory mid range entry point of six matches. The Committee decided not to award full 50% mitigation due to the non-acceptance of foul play resulting in a final sanction of four matches (reduced to three on successful completion of the coaching intervention).”
Sheehan will now miss the opening two matches of Leinster’s URC season, at least, as well the Irish province’s pre-season clash against Cardiff.
If he does complete the World Rugby coaching intervention program, he will be available for selection for the Inter-Pro derby against Munster on 18 October.
