The Highlanders’ number eight, Sean Withy, has received a three-week suspension following an incident in which he kneed Western Force winger Harry Potter in the face during their Super Rugby Pacific encounter in Perth last weekend.
The foul play review committee for Super Rugby Pacific (FPRC) deemed Withy guilty of reckless and dangerous conduct, violating Law 9.11.
The red-carded incident transpired in the 48th minute of the match, which the Highlanders ultimately lost, at HBF Park.
The FPRC set the mid-range entry point for the offence at six weeks/matches.
Withy acknowledged his foul play, which, coupled with mitigating factors like his clean disciplinary history, led the FPRC to impose a 50 per cent reduction on the sanction.
Sean Withy will be sidelined for three matches. Super Rugby
He is also permitted to apply for participation in World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme to serve as a substitute for the final match of his suspension.
Withy is barred from playing in any capacity for three weeks, which means he will miss the Highlanders’ forthcoming fixtures against the Fijian Drua, Chiefs, and Crusaders.
If he completes the coaching intervention programme, he will be eligible to face the Crusaders.
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The Highlanders’ recent defeat, 29-20 to the Force, leaves them with just two victories from seven games.
Currently positioned ninth in the competition standings, the Highlanders will face the struggling Drua in Dunedin on Saturday night.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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