Crusaders crisis deepens as former All Black prop hit with ban

The Crusaders will be without former All Black prop Owen Franks after his illegal cleanout in the dying stages of the loss to Hurricanes has been sanctioned.

The 36-year-old received a yellow card on the field for a dangerous cleanout on lock Justin Sangster as the Hurricane was retreating from the ruck.

Franks became engulfed in a scuffle with openside Du’Plessis Kirifi who took exception to Franks’ high shot which stopped play.

The on-field yellow card was later upgraded to red which meant Franks had to face a judiciary hearing for foul play.

SANZAAR’s foul play review committee charged Franks with dangerous play at a ruck and maul and handed him a two-game suspension, ruling him out of crunch derbies with the Blues and the Chiefs.

Should he complete a head contact course, Franks could recieve a one-week reduction and by eligible for the Chiefs rematch.

Rob Penney has a new headache to deal with this week as Franks joins captain Scott Barrett sidelined with a finger injury, Tamaiti Williams, loose forward Ethan Blackadde and hooker Codie Taylor as All Blacks out of action.

Joe Moody might be available after suffering from Covid last week.

The Blues host the Crusaders on Saturday night at Eden Park with Rob Penney’s side looking to avoid five losses in a row to start the season.