Sale Sharks hooker cited for alleged biting incident, could face lengthy ban

The report, first shared by Irish journalist Caolán Scully on X, puts Jibulu’s availability in doubt ahead of the crucial clash.

The former Harlequins player, who joined Sale in the summer, has impressed under Alex Sanderson, scoring four PREM tries and offering a strong carrying presence.

He has also demonstrated his versatility, even starting at openside flanker in a recent defeat to Bath.

A product of the Harlequins academy, Jibulu made an immediate impact early in his career with a try-scoring debut in the Premiership Rugby Cup against Saracens in September 2022. During that season, he also spent time on loan at Esher RFC.

Jibulu made his first Premiership start for Harlequins in September 2024, marking the occasion with a try in a 28–14 win over Newcastle Falcons. His move to Sale Sharks was confirmed in February 2025.

On the international stage, he debuted for England U20s in the final round of the 2023 Six Nations Under-20s Championship and later featured in the World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa, scoring against Australia.

He was called up to train with England A in November 2024 and earned his first cap a year later, starting in a win over Spain.

The outcome of the citing remains uncertain, but if found guilty, Jibulu could face a lengthy suspension. Under World Rugby Law 9.12, biting carries a sanction ranging from 12 weeks at the low end to 24 weeks or more at the top end.

With Luke Cowan-Dickie injured, if Jibulu is found guilty then Sale may be forced to head to Dublin with Tadhg McElroy and Ethan Caine as their hooker options.