Queensland Reds lock Harry Hockings banned for three weeks
Harry Hockings was red-carded during the game against Sunwolves
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Queensland Reds lock Harry Hockings will face a suspension of three weeks following his red-card incident during the Super Rugby game against Sunwolves at Suncorp Stadium last weekend.
The 20-year-old was sent off in the 76th minute during the game for kicking the head of head of Sunwolves back-row Rahboni Warren-Vosayaco.
As a result, Hockings was proved guilty of a breach in Law 9.12 that deals with 'A player must not physically or verbally abuse anyone. Physical abuse includes, but is not limited to, biting, punching, contact with the eye or eye area, striking with any part of the arm (including stiff-arm tackles), shoulder, head or knee(s), stamping, trampling, tripping or kicking'.
Judical Committee Chairperson Nigel Hampton QC ruled that the act of Hockings warranted a six-week ban but that was reduced to half following his conduct during the hearing and other mitigating factors.
“Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Mark Martin QC, the Judicial Committee upheld the Red Card under Law 9.12,” Hampton said in a statement released by SANZAAR.
“With respect to the sanction, the Judicial Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a mid-range entry point of six weeks due to the World Rugby instructions that dictate any incident of foul play involving contact with the head must start at a mid-range level.
“The actions of the player were deemed reckless, although the contact made was found not to have been made with significant force.
“Taking into account mitigating factors including the player’s clean judicial record, his youth and good reputation, his acceptance of responsibility and his expressed remorse, the Judicial Committee reduced the suspension to three weeks.”
