Anthony Watson appeared before an independent disciplinary last week. He was charged with conduct prejudicial to the interests of the Union and/or The Game, contrary to RFU Rule 5.12.
This was for comments on social media about a decision made by the referee during the match between Bath Rugby and Wasps on Saturday 30 October 2021.
Watson, who tweeted: “Here we go again. Where is he supposed to wrap?! Obsurd [sic] decision”
In a statement, the club said: “Watson accepted the charge and was given a one-week ban, suspended until the end of the 2022/23 season. He has also been asked to prepare and deliver a presentation to his teammates and the Rugby Department in January.
“Watson shared his regret saying: “I apologise for my actions and accept that I should have given more thought about the impact of them at the time; particularly as it was a Premiership game, and I am aware that I should not comment on decisions made by match officials. I hope that the RFU will forgive this error of judgement.”
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Four players Eddie Jones should drop – and who should replace them for the Six Nations
#1. Owen Farrell
The England captain would have hoped to play a much bigger on-field role. Unstinting team man as always but England actually looked a better team with him not on the field.
Replacement: George Ford
The 28-year-old’s uplift in form since being dropped by Jones has been incredible with a number of flawless performances in the Gallagher Premiership for Leicester. He feels like a more appropriate deputy for Marcus Smith, and has plenty of experience to pass on to the 22-year-old upstart.
