Ten-week biting ban for Senatore

Editor

DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - MARCH 05: Leonardo Senatore of the Jaguares during the 2016 Super Rugby match between Cell C Sharks and Jaguares at Growthpoint Kings Park Stadium on March 05, 2016 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Steve Haag/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Jaguares and Argentina number eight Leonardo Senatore has been handed a ten-week ban for biting in last weekend’s loss to the Sharks.

A SANZAAR Judicial Hearing found Senatore of the Jaguares guilty of contravening Law 10.4 (m) – Acts contrary to good sportsmanship – Biting – after he was cited during a Super Rugby match at the weekend.

Senatore contravened Law 10.4 (m) during the match at Vélez Sarsfield in Buenos Aires on May 14.

The SANZAAR Judicial Hearing held via video conference on Monday, May 16 and was heard by Judicial Committee members; Adam Casselden (Chairman), John Langford and De Wet Barry.

In their finding, the Judicial committee 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, Stephan Weyers, the Judicial Committee upheld the citing under Law 10.4(m) acts contrary to good sportsmanship  – biting. 

“With respect to sanction the Judicial Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a low-end entry point of 12 weeks.

“The Judicial Committee then added two weeks for aggravation as this was the player’s second offence for biting.

“However, taking into account mitigating factors including the player’s good character, his playing record and his disciplinary record the Judicial Committee reduced the suspension to a period of ten weeks.”