Round 15 Disciplinary Decisions

Disciplinary Decision – Shane Delahunt (Three Weeks)

Shane Delahunt of Connacht Rugby has been banned for a period of three weeks as a result of his red card in the Guinness PRO14 Round 15 fixture with Munster Rugby on Sunday, August 30.

Delahunt was shown a red card by referee Frank Murphy (IRFU) under Law 9.11 – A player must not do anything that is reckless or dangerous to others.

The Player accepted that his actions warranted a red card for foul play. the incident was deemed a mid-range offence, which carries a six-week suspension.
In light of the Player’s previous clean disciplinary record, early acceptance of the red card, cooperation with procedure and remorse shown, the Player was granted the maximum (50 per cent) mitigation from the entry point sanction, bringing his ban to three weeks.

As the 2020/21 season fixtures are not yet finalised, the ban will span over the course of three meaningful games.

The disciplinary process for the red card offence was presided over by Judicial Officer Pamela Woodman (SRU).

The Player was reminded of his right to appeal.

Disciplinary Decision – Abraham Papali’i (Three Weeks)

Abraham Papali’i of Connacht Rugby has also been banned for a period of three weeks, following his red card in the same fixture with Munster Rugby on Sunday, August 30.

Papali’i received a red card from referee Frank Murphy (IRFU) under Law 9.13 – A Player(s) must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously. Dangerous tackling includes, but is not limited to, tackling or attempting to tackle an opponent above the line of the shoulders even if the tackle starts below the line of the shoulders.

The Player accepted that his actions warranted a red card for foul play. The incident was deemed a mid-range offence, which carries a six-week suspension.

The Player’s previous clean disciplinary record and cooperation with procedure warranted application of maximum (50 per cent) mitigation, bringing his ban to three weeks. The Player was reminded to be mindful of high tackles going forward.

As the 2020/21 season fixtures are not yet finalised, the ban will span over the course of three meaningful games.

The Disciplinary process for the red card offence was presided over by a Disciplinary Panel consisting of Simon Thomas (Chair), Nigel Williams and Charles Cuthbert (all WRU).