Romain Ntamack questions disparity in Six Nations bans

French fly-half Romain Ntamack has expressed his frustration over what he perceives as an inconsistency in disciplinary decisions following recent Six Nations suspensions.

Ntamack, who was handed a three-match ban for a high tackle, has questioned why Ireland’s Garry Ringrose received a shorter suspension despite committing a similar offense.

He was sent off in France’s opening Six Nations match against Wales for a high tackle. Initially given a six-week ban, the suspension was later reduced to three matches due to mitigating factors. This ruling meant he was forced to miss crucial fixtures against England and Italy.

Reacting to the difference in punishments, Ntamack expressed his frustration, stating, “There is an injustice. I take three weeks, he takes two. I don’t know how they calculate it.”

Ringrose was red-carded in Ireland’s win over Wales for a high tackle on Ben Thomas. While his original suspension was also six weeks, it was halved due to his guilty plea, and an additional game was removed after he agreed to attend World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme.

As a result, Ringrose was suspended for Leinster’s match against Cardiff and Ireland’s game against France but will be available for Ireland’s final Six Nations fixture.

Ntamack pointed out what he sees as a discrepancy, saying, “I don’t know if they are harsher with the French or more lenient with the others.”

The decision regarding Ringrose’s ban has raised concerns within French rugby circles. France Rugby officials have sought clarification on the disciplinary rulings, arguing that there needs to be consistency in how suspensions are determined.

World Rugby, however, has distanced itself from the process, stating that disciplinary matters for the tournament fall under the jurisdiction of Six Nations Rugby Limited.