Independent Disciplinary Committee decision
2023.12.14
Siokapesi Palu of Australia underwent an independent Disciplinary Committee hearing on 3 November for an infraction according to Law 9.13 (dangerous tackle) committed during Australia’s WXV 1 match versus Wales. The player was suspended for two games pending the completion of the Coaching Intervention Programme.
Siokapesi Palu of Australia underwent an independent Disciplinary Committee hearing on 3 November for an infraction according to Law 9.13 (dangerous tackling) committed during Australia’s WXV 1 match against Wales.
Jennifer Donovan (Ireland) presided over the independent Disciplinary Committee, which included former international players Becky Essex (England) and Ofisa Tonu’u (New Zealand).
The player admitted that improper action had occurred and that a red card was merited.
The Committee noted that the offence carries a mandatory minimum mid-range sanction (six matches), and after considering mitigating factors such as admission of foul play, an exemplary disciplinary record, an apology to the player, and good character, reduced the sanction by 50%. The sanction will be as follows:
- ACT Brumbies v Hong Kong China Women – 10 February
- NSW Waratahs v ACT Brumbies – 24 February
- Oceania v ACT Brumbies – 2 March*
Subject to successful completion, the player plans to seek for participation in the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme to replace the final match of the sanction with a coaching intervention targeted at changing particular methods and technical concerns that led to the foul play.more info
The player has the right of appeal within 48 hours of the issuing of the full written decision, which can be found.
@charith
