WillGriff John learns his fate after 'completely avoidable' act of foul play

Sale Sharks’ Wales international tight-head, WillGriff John, has been hit with a three-game ban, which will be reduced to two if he successfully completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme (CIP).

John was guilty of two reckless clearouts at the ruck in quick succession during the closing minutes of the 28-16 defeat at The Rec, the first of which earned him a yellow card on review. However, the second charging incident, which led to contact with the head of his opposite number, Archie Griffin, escaped any on-field sanction.

Bath then cited John, who had tucked his arm and led with his shoulder, as frustration got the better of him.

In delivering their verdict, the disciplinary panel said that the incident was completely avoidable. GriffJohn admitted his guilt and showed remorse for the unintentional act of foul play and checked in on the injured player after the match.

These actions, combined with the player’s good disciplinary record and character, resulted in the six-week entry point for the offence being halved.

The 32-year-old will miss this weekend’s derby match against Newcastle Red Bulls, as well as the games against Saracens on 18 October and Leicester on 25 October, the latter subject to the completion of the CIP.