Harlequins hand one-week suspension for Dave Ward

Harlequins have announced a one-week suspension for hooker Dave Ward following an incident involving Thomas Young in the recently concluded Gallagher Premiership clash against Wasps at Twickenham.

Ward was sin-binned in the 11th minute during the game last Saturday after he was alleged to have stamped Young's ankle during the 11th minute of the game that was won by the Quins 20-13.

The 33-year-old faced criticism from all corners after TV replays showed Ward appearing to have spit on Young that was not spotted by the on-field referee but following an internal review conducted, both the club and the player have denied the allegations.

“I apologise unreservedly to Thomas Young, Wasps and everyone at Harlequins for my yellow card yesterday," said Ward in a statement released by the club.

“I would also like to make clear that I did not spit on another player during the match yesterday. Regardless of what the television footage looks like I know that I have never spat on a player in all my career and will never do so.”

Meanwhile, Harlequins head of rugby Paul Gustard said he has discussed the issue with Ward and rendered an apology to Wasps for the incident.

“We have reviewed this episode as a club and I have spoken with Dave.

“We do not coach, condone or accept foul play and on behalf of the team and the Club, I apologise to Thomas, Dai and Wasps for this incident. It was an unnecessary and regrettable incident in what was a tightly contested match at Twickenham.”