The Verdict Is In On Joe Marler’s Hearing

Harlequins prop Joe Marler has been suspended for two weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London on Wednesday.

Marler was cited by the match Citing Commissioner, Iain Goodall (Scotland), for allegedly kicking Grenoble hooker Arnaud Heguy in the 26th minute of the Challenge Cup semi-final at the Stoop in contravention of Law 10.4 (c).

Law 10.4 (c) Kicking an opponent
Under World Rugby’s Sanctions for Foul Play, Law 10.4 (c), carries the following sanction entry points – Low End: 4 weeks; Mid-Range: 8 weeks; Top End: 12 to 52 weeks

A Disciplinary Committee consisting of Roger Morris (Wales), Chairman, Simon Thomas (Wales) and Kathrine Mackie (Scotland) heard evidence and submissions from Marler, who accepted that he had committed an act of foul play but who did not accept that the foul play warranted a red card, and from Richard Smith QC on behalf of Marler.

The Committee also heard evidence and submissions from the EPCR Disciplinary Officer, Liam McTiernan.

In upholding the citing complaint, the Committee found that Marler had committed an act of foul play that warranted a red card. It determined that the offence was at the low end of World Rugby’s sanctions and selected four weeks as the appropriate entry point.

In deciding to disregard the player’s recent suspension as it was of an entirely different nature, the Committee then reduced the sanction by two weeks – 50 percent of the entry point – before imposing a suspension of two weeks.

Marler is free to play on Monday, 9 May. Both the player and EPCR have the right to appeal the decision. [PlanetRugby]