Ma'a Nonu cited after Stormers clash

Ma’a Nonu has been cited for dangerous tackling after Toulon’s 28-27 win over the Stormers in the Investec Champions Cup Round of 16, with EPCR confirming that the former All Blacks centre will face a disciplinary hearing over the incident.

Ma’a Nonu Cited After Toulon Vs Stormers Match

EPCR said the complaint relates to an incident involving Toulon replacement centre Nonu and Stormers replacement centre Wandisile Simelane late in the match at Stade Mayol.

The alleged offence took place in the 79th minute, with Nonu accused of making a dangerous tackle in breach of Law 9.13. Referee Christophe Ridley showed Nonu a yellow card during the game, but the matter has now been referred for further disciplinary review.

EPCR Disciplinary Hearing For Ma’a Nonu

The citing complaint was lodged by the match citing commissioner, and EPCR has appointed a three-member disciplinary committee to hear the case by video conference.

The panel will now decide whether the yellow-card incident warrants further punishment under World Rugby’s foul play framework. The hearing could determine whether Toulon lose one of their most experienced backs for the next stage of the competition.

Law 9.13 Sanction Risk For Toulon Centre

Law 9.13 covers early, late and dangerous tackles, including contact above the line of the shoulders.

Under World Rugby’s sanction framework, the entry points for this offence range from two weeks at the low end to six weeks at mid-range, while the top-end range runs from 10 to 52 weeks.

Nonu, now 43, last played Test rugby for New Zealand at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and remains one of the most recognisable veterans still active in elite club rugby.