Harlequins prop Joe Marler has been suspended for a period of six weeks, meaning he will miss England’s first two Six Nations matches.
Marler appeared before an independent disciplinary panel this evening after receiving a red card from referee Matt Carley against Sale.
He was sent off in the 58th minute for striking with the shoulder and making contact with Sale Sharks’ TJ Ioane, contrary to law 9.12.
Marler pleaded guilty to the charge. He is available to play again on Tuesday, February 20, which means he misses the Italy and Wales fixtures.
The chairman of the panel Philip Evans QC said: “The panel found that contact was made with the head of TJ Ioane and as a result the mandatory entry point is mid-range.
“The panel considered that the player’s previous record was such that it required an additional period of suspension of one week, however because of his plea, his conduct since the incident took place and other personal mitigation, the panel allowed some reduction.”
Meanwhile, Sale’s Ioane was cited by independent citing commissioner Shaun Gallagher for striking Harlequins’ Marler with the arm, contrary to law 9.12.
The incident occurred in the 53rd minute and he consented to the matter being dealt with on papers and pleaded guilty to the charge. He has been suspended for a period of two weeks and is available to play again on January 23.
The panel comprised Philip Evans QC (chair) with Aidan O’Brien and Becky Essex.
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