"Really nasty" - England forward banned with immediate effect

The experienced flanker was shown a red card for a dangerous clear-out in the 58th minute at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, having made contact with a Spanish player’s lower limbs – an offence under Law 9.20(e).

A Foul Play Review Committee (FPRC), chaired by Helen Morgan (New Zealand) alongside former internationals Ofisa Tonu'u (New Zealand) and Sarah Smith (Scotland), reviewed the incident under World Rugby’s expedited disciplinary process.

While Packer accepted her actions amounted to foul play, she contested that they warranted a red card. However, after reviewing footage and written submissions, the panel concluded that her actions were reckless, noting that although the initial contact was on the back, a secondary movement caused significant weight to be dropped on the Spanish player’s leg and knee. Fortunately, the Spanish player avoided injury.

The offence was assessed at the low-end entry point of two matches, but with Packer’s clean record and early acceptance, she received the maximum 50% mitigation, reducing the suspension to just one game.

Packer will now sit out England’s key Women's Summer Series showdown against France on 9 August.