Ospreys lock James Fender escapes lengthy ban

Ospreys lock James Fender has been handed a one-game suspension following his red card for a controversial croc-roll incident during the New Year’s Day United Rugby Championship match against Cardiff at the Arms Park.

The 23-year-old was sent off in the 38th minute by referee Ben Breakspear after an illegal clearout on Cardiff flanker Dan Thomas during a ruck.

The foul play, categorized under Law 9.20 (d), prohibits players from rolling, pulling, or twisting an opponent in the tackle area.

Fender appeared before a disciplinary committee on Wednesday to address the incident. Initially, the panel imposed a two-week suspension, but mitigating factors, including his apology, clean disciplinary record, and full cooperation throughout the process, led to a reduction to a one-game ban.

As a result, Fender missed a semi-professional match against Cardiff on January 4 but is now eligible to return for the Ospreys' Challenge Cup clash against Newcastle Falcons this weekend.

The upcoming European fixture could serve as a crucial platform for Fender to make his case for selection in Warren Gatland’s Six Nations squad, which is set to be announced next week.