Overview
- EPCR disciplinary panels, which met by video link on Tuesday, banned Nathan Jibulu for six weeks for biting and Ma’a Nonu for three weeks for a dangerous tackle, and both punishments are open to appeal.
- Jibulu admitted biting Harlequins prop Will Hobson in the 69th minute at the Twickenham Stoop, and the panel cut the low-end 12-week entry point to six for a guilty plea, remorse, youth and a clean record.
- Nonu accepted his foul on Stormers back Wandisile Simelane warranted a red card, and the committee reduced a mid-range six-week starting point to three for remorse and a strong record, with a possible earlier return on April 20 if he completes World Rugby’s coaching course.
- The suspensions rule Jibulu out of Sale’s trip to Leinster and keep Nonu out of Toulon’s visit to Glasgow in this weekend’s quarter-finals.
- Sale now face a shortage at hooker for Dublin, with reporting indicating Ethan Caine and Tadgh McElroy are in line to cover after Luke Cowan-Dickie’s arm injury.