Tom Curry’s participation in the remainder of the 2023 Rugby World Cup’s pool stage hangs in the balance, contingent upon the potential overturning of his red card against Argentina.
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has yet to confirm whether they will file an appeal, as such a move could carry the risk of extending Curry’s absence should it not go in their favour.At the player’s request, the hearing will take place on Tuesday, September 12.
At the player’s request, the hearing will take place on Tuesday, September 12.
This dramatic turn of events transpired during Curry’s comeback appearance, marking his return to the field following his absence since the Premiership final. The contest against Argentina took a somber twist when referee Matthieu Raynal sin-binned him after just three minutes
The red card was the result of Curry’s involvement in a perceived dangerous tackle on Juan Cruz Mallia, the Pumas’ full-back, who had leaped into the air to secure a high ball.
Initially, Curry received a yellow card for the incident, but it was subsequently upgraded thanks to the newly implemented bunker system.
According to World Rugby’s guidelines, “mandatory minimum mid-range entry point for foul play resulting in contact with the head” mandates a starting point of a six-game suspension.
However, considering Curry’s “exemplary previous record,” it is plausible that this suspension could be halved to three matches. Consequently, Curry may find himself sidelined for the upcoming clashes against Japan, Samoa, and Chile.
Curry may also apply to take part in the Coaching Intervention Programme to substitute the final match of his sanction for a coaching intervention aimed at modifying specific techniques and technical issues that contributed to the foul play.
“Abject” – Three England players Steve Borthwick must change, and who should replace them
Despite this triumph, there remains room for improvement in England’s starting lineup, and we believe that Borthwick should consider implementing three changes to further enhance the team’s prospects moving forward.
#1. Tom Curry
Telegraph 2/10: “The flanker was overeager in defence after an injury, red-carded after a TMO bunker review for a slightly unfortunate head-on-head collision in the third minute.”
RUCK 0/10: “Sent off after just two minutes. Some may say unlucky, but the flanker really left the officials no choice.”
Planet Rugby 1/10: “Some said he was unlucky, but ultimately he was high in contact and paid the price. Fortunately, his team-mates bailed him out. “
Rugby Pass 0/10: “Was hailed in the build-up as the potential missing link for the England defence as he arrived in France without playing a single minute of the four-game Summer Nations Series. That idea quickly went out the window, though. “
The Guardian 2/10: “Palpably fired up before the match, having not played since May, but lasted less than three minutes before a red card, via the bunker, for an overzealous tackle on Juan Cruz Mallía.”
Replacement: Jack Willis