Former All Blacks prop faces ban after dangerous tackle in Prem Rugby Cup

The 34-year-old New Zealander was cited after video footage showed him making shoulder-to-head contact with Bristol prop Scott Kirk during the 19 September clash at Kingsholm. Laulala was not penalised on the field, but an independent disciplinary panel later ruled the incident warranted a red card.

A three-match ban was imposed, which can be reduced by one game should Laulala successfully complete the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme, aimed at correcting technical issues and reducing risk in contact situations.

Under the current ruling, Laulala will miss Gloucester’s Premiership clash with Harlequins on 29 November and their European Champions Cup fixture against Castres the following weekend. Should he not complete the intervention, he would also be unavailable for the trip to Munster on 13 December.

The decision reinforces World Rugby’s commitment to player welfare, while offering cited players a route to maintain their playing schedule by addressing the techniques that led to dangerous play. Gloucester will now look to adapt their front-row options as Laulala serves his suspension.