England prop Mako Vunipola hit with three-week suspension
Vunipola was sent off for dangerous play in Saracens’ win over Newcastle
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England prop Mako Vunipola has received a three-week ban after being sent off in Saracens’ Gallagher Premiership victory over Newcastle.
But it means he will be available for England’s autumn Tests, starting against Argentina on 6 November.
Vunipola, who has won 70 caps, was dismissed for dangerous play in a ruck or maul at Kingston Park.
He will miss Premiership games against Bath and Exeter, plus a Premiership Rugby Cup appointment with London Irish.
The suspension will be reduced by one match if he successfully completes World Rugby’s coaching intervention programme.
Vunipola’s case was heard by a three-man independent disciplinary panel, the Rugby Football Union said.
Wasps full-back Jacob Umaga also received a three-week ban following his dismissal against Northampton on Sunday.
Umaga was charged with tackling, charging, pulling or grasping the jumper (Northampton wing Courtnall Skosan) in the air, contrary to World Rugby law 9.17.
Umaga is currently injured, and the RFU said that the games he will miss will be determined following confirmation from Wasps when he is fit to play again.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments