Seven weeks worth of Investec Champions Cup bans handed down

Two French club players have received a combined seven weeks in suspensions following red cards during last weekend’s Investec Champions Cup action.

Union Bordeaux-Bègles prop Toma’akino Taufa was handed a three-week ban after being sent off in the 68th minute of his side’s Round 3 clash against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park. Referee Ben Whitehouse dismissed Taufa for a dangerous tackle in violation of Law 9.13, which prohibits early, late, or dangerous tackles, including those above the line of the shoulders.

The 145kg prop’s case was reviewed by an independent disciplinary panel who determined the offence warranted a mid-range six-week entry point. No aggravating factors were considered and the committee reduced the sanction by three weeks based on Taufa’s mitigation.

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The 28-year-old could have his suspension further reduced by one week if he completes World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme, making him eligible to play from 27 January 2025.

If he doesn’t do the intervention he will be free to return on 17 February.

The pool toppers host the Cell C Sharks this Sunday at 3pm at Stade Chaban-Delmas.

Meanwhile, ASM Clermont Auvergne prop Giorgi Akhaladze has been suspended for four weeks following a similar offence in his side’s match against Bath at The Recreation Ground. Akhaladze was red-carded in the 24th minute by referee Mike Adamson for a dangerous tackle under the same law breach.

The Georgian’s case was heard by a panel and as with Taufa, Akhaladze’s offence carried a six-week mid-range entry point. The panel applied a two-week reduction for mitigation leading to a four-week suspension.

The 26-year-old could see his ban shortened to three weeks by completing World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme, allowing him to return on 3 February.

Both players and the EPCR retain the right to appeal these decisions.

Clermont play Bristol Bears this weekend at Stade Marcel Michelin.