Wilson and Vermeulen handed suspensions following Premiership clash

Saracens lock Harry Wilson and Exeter Chiefs flanker Jacques Vermeulen have both been handed suspensions following disciplinary incidents in their recent Premiership Rugby Cup encounter.

Wilson received a three-match ban after being sent off for a high tackle on Rusi Tuima, while Vermeulen has been suspended for two games for dangerous play that was not initially penalized during the match.

Wilson, 27, was dismissed in the final eight minutes of the match after making a high tackle on Tuima, with his shoulder making direct contact with the Exeter player’s head. The incident resulted in a straight red card and subsequent disciplinary action.

As a result of the ban, Wilson will miss three upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup fixtures against Ealing Trailfinders, London Scottish, and Harlequins.

However, he has the option to reduce his suspension to two matches if he successfully completes World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme, which focuses on improving tackling technique and player safety.

Meanwhile, Vermeulen, 29, was cited after the match for an incident involving dangerous play in a ruck or maul, which was not penalized at the time.

The South African forward has now been suspended for two matches, ruling him out of Exeter’s cup fixtures against Hartpury University and Cornish Pirates.

The suspensions present challenges for both clubs, particularly as they manage squad rotations during the Premiership Rugby Cup campaign. Saracens will need to adjust their forward pack without Wilson, while Exeter will have to cope without Vermeulen’s physical presence in the back row.