Blues captain suspended for ‘reckless’ tackle

Dalton Papalii of the Blues during their match against the Crusaders at Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch on 15 April 2022.
Photo: Photosport

Blues captain Dalton Papali’i will miss the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific regular season after being suspended for three weeks for a dangerous tackle.

Papali’i was shown a yellow card for a high shot on Crusaders first five Richie Mo’unga, it was upgraded to a red card following a review by the TMO.

The Blues lost the game 15-3.

The SANZAAR Foul Play Review Committee of Michael Heron KC (Chairman), Stefan Terblanche and John Langford assessed the case.

In his finding, Heron ruled the following:

“Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Aaron Lloyd, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the red card under Law 9.13.”

“With respect to sanction, the Foul Play Review Committee held the act of foul play was reckless, with direct head contact and no significant mitigating factors present.

The FPRC found the incident was dangerous and after considering the relevant factors decided the foul play merited a mid-range entry point of 6 weeks. Taking into account mitigating factors, including the Player’s exemplary record and guilty plea, the Judicial Committee reduced the suspension by three weeks.

“The player is therefore suspended for 3 weeks, up to and including 2 June 2023.”

The Blues are in Queensland to play the Reds this weekend, Papali’i will also miss their home game against the Hurricanes and their home game against Highlanders in the last round.

The Blues are fifth on the table.