Wilson case dismissed at hearing

Editor

The citing complaint against Glasgow Warriors flanker Ryan Wilson for allegedly grabbing the testicles of an opponent has been dismissed.

Wilson was cited by the match Citing Commissioner, Jeff Mark (Wales), for allegedly grabbing the testicles of Northampton scrum-half Lee Dickson in the 25th minute of the Champions Cup Round 5 match at Franklin's Gardens on Sunday, 17 January 2016 in contravention of Law 10.4 (m).

Law 10.4 (m) Testicle grabbing or twisting or squeezing
Under World Rugby's Sanctions for Foul Play, Law 10.4 (m), Testicle grabbing or twisting or squeezing carries the following sanction entry points – Low End: 12 weeks; Mid-Range: 18 weeks; Top End: 24 to 208 weeks.

The independent Judicial Officer, Simon Thomas (Wales), heard evidence from Wilson, who pleaded not guilty to the offence, and from Dickson. He also heard evidence and submissions from Glasgow Warriors Rugby Operations Manager, John Manson, from Glasgow Warriors legal representative, Bruce Caldow, and from the EPCR Disciplinary Officer, Liam McTiernan.

As the Judicial Officer was not satisfied to the required standard that the act of foul play as alleged had been committed, the citing complaint was dismissed and Wilson is therefore free to play.