England prop Kyle Sinckler could miss their Six Nations opener after he was handed a two game/week ban for his foul-mouthed outburst.
In theory he is clear for the kick off as Bristol Bears next two games come before Scotland opener on February. However, there was no clarification on this in the verdict.
The incident occurred early in the second half of Saturday’s clash when Sinckler was tackled by Exeter hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie in what appeared to be a low no-arms tackle.
Referee Karl Dickson deemed it legal, leading to Sinckler saying “Are you f—— serious?”
Despite the prop taking to Twitter to apologise that evening, Sinckler was cited for the distasteful incident.
The independent disciplinary panel said: “Kyle Sinckler accepted that he used foul language at the Referee, he did not accept the conduct warranted a red card.
“The Panel viewed the live recordings of the incident and were satisfied that his shout of ‘are you fxxxxxx serious’ was:
“The Player was candid in is evidence as to why he had done so and regretted his actions. The Panel found that his actions disrespected the authority of the Referee and it was in breach of a core value of Rugby – respect of match officials – and warranted a red card.
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“The Panel determined that in all the circumstances it was a low entry point with no relevant mitigation. The sanction is a two-week ban.”
Sinckler is due to miss the following games:
- Gallagher Premiership: Bristol Bears v Bath Rugby, Friday 29 January
- Gallagher Premiership: Bristol Bears v Sale Sharks, Friday 5 February
If any of the above games are cancelled or rearranged then the player’s free to play date will be amended to ensure the sanction remains meaningful.
For the full sanctions table (RFU Regulation 19 Appendix 2) please click here. For background detail on panel members please click here.
A section of fans were not happy with the ban. One wrote: ‘Now that is harsh. It’s a proper game. Under pressure. And he’s just been whacked.’
However, others thought it was appropriate, saying: ”Serves him right. Respect the ref always! Even if he’s wrong.’
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LIST | 5 players who are set to miss the start of the Six Nations
A number of high-profile stars are in a race against time to be fit for the upcoming 2021 Six Nations.
1. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
The Wales captain is expected to miss the start of the 2021 Six Nations Championship. The Test record-holder for appearances suffered a knee injury during Wales’ Autumn Nations Cup clash against Italy last month. And after being assessed by the medical staff at the Ospreys, Jones could now be a doubt for Wales’ Six Nations opener against Ireland on February 7.
