Caleb Timu and Ed Quirk handed two-week bans

Queensland Reds flanker Caleb Timu and Sunwolves' Ed Quirk have been handed two-week suspension following the recently concluded Super Rugby game between the two teams at Suncorp Stadium.

Quirk was sent-off in the 37th for a dangerous tackle on Hamish Stewart while Timu was sin-binned in the 45th minute for smashing Hayden Parker on the floor.

Timu was found to have breached Law 9.11 and was initially handed a four-week ban that was reduced to half considering the mitigating factors. His suspension will be in effect until 28th July.

“Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, as well as a statement from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Mark Martin QC, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the citing under Law 9.11," said Foul Play Review Committee Chairman Nigel Hampton QC.

“With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a mid-range entry point of 4 weeks given the level of recklessness. However, taking into account mitigating factors including the Player’s excellent Judicial record and guilty plea at his first available opportunity, the Foul Play Review Committee reduced the suspension to two weeks."

Meanwhile, Quirk has been suspended from all forms of the game up to 4th August

“Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, as well as a statement from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Maryjane Crabtree, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the Red Card under Law 9.12

“With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a mid-range entry point of 4 weeks given the strike to the head of the opposition player. However, taking into account mitigating factors including the Player’s good Judicial record, the fact the opposing Player was uninjured and the Player’s guilty plea at the first available opportunity, the Foul Play Review Committee reduced the suspension to two weeks.