Saracens back row Billy Vunipola's red card decision overturned

Saracens have received a much needed boost ahead of the second round of the Investec Champions Cup clash against Connacht as number eight Billy Vunipola's red card decision was overturned.

The England international was sent-off early in the second half during the opening round of the Champions Cup game against Bulls for a dangerous tackle on forward Cameron Hanekom.

His absence proved decisive for Saracens as they succumbed to a 16-27 defeat.

Vunipola faced the independent Disciplinary hearing with the Committee comprising Jennifer Donovan (Ireland), Chair, Tony Wheat (Ireland) and Valeriu Toma (Romania) and it was decided that there was insufficient force in the contact to Hanekom’s head thereby clearing him of the red card offence.

“The committee determined that Vunipola had committed an act of foul play," read a statement from the European Professional Club Rugby.

“However, it decided that there was insufficient force in the contact to Hanekom’s head to warrant a red card, and the red card was therefore overturned.

“Vunipola is free to play immediately, and EPCR has the right to appeal the decision.”