Saracens' Hugh Tizard handed six-week suspension

Saracens lock Hugh Tizard has been handed a six-week suspension following a red card incident during his team’s Premiership clash against Newcastle Falcons on November 29.

The ruling, delivered by an independent disciplinary panel, will see the 24-year-old sidelined until January 14, 2025.

The controversy unfolded at Kingston Park, where Tizard was penalized for dangerous play in a ruck or maul under World Rugby Law 9.20.

The incident left Saracens playing with 14 men for the remainder of the match and raised immediate questions about the forward's availability for the busy festive period.

The disciplinary panel, chaired by James Dingemans and including Becky Essex and Daniel Gore, reviewed the case earlier this week. Tizard accepted the charges without contest, acknowledging the seriousness of his actions.

After thorough deliberation, the panel concluded that a six-week suspension was the appropriate penalty for the offense. While this ruling will impact Saracens’ squad depth during the holiday fixtures, Tizard will be eligible to return in mid-January, aligning with the critical latter stages of the season.