‘Bonkers decision’ – Billy Vunipola red-carded after ‘reckless’ clear-out

Jared Wright
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Screenshots of Billy Vunipola's red card during the Champions Cup clash against the Bulls (via TNT Sport).

Screenshots of Billy Vunipola's red card during the Champions Cup clash against the Bulls (via TNT Sport).

England and Saracens number eight Billy Vunipola could face a lengthy ban after a nasty clearout on Bulls back-rower Cameron Hanekom in the Champions Cup clash at Loftus.

Referee Andrea Piardi gave Vuniipola his marching orders in the 52nd minute of the fixture after he attempted to clear out a ruck following a scrum.

He charged into the breakdown following a carry from centre Lucio Cinti and made shoulder-to-head contact with the Bulls‘ rising star.

Following a TMO review, Piardi issued the red card, meaning Saracens would finish the game with 14 players.

It’s the second time in the last five months after he was sent off and banned for his tackle on Ireland prop Andrew Porter during the Rugby World Cup warm-up match.

The 31-year-old was handed a three-match ban for that tackle and missed the World Cup opener against Argentina.

Reaction

The decision from Piardi to red card Vunipola has proved to be divisive on social media. Former England fly-half Andy Goode believed that it did not warrant a sending-off.

“Never a red card for Billy Vunipola, a yellow at best!” Goode posted on X, formerly Twitter.

One fan reacted, posting: “Bonkers decision, glancing blow as he goes under the player who’s bent double!”

But just as many spectators felt that the correct decision was reached.

“Absolutely a red card… born of frustration but Bill has seemed that way for a season or so, is it concern about his performances? Hope the club are checking in on him and his temperament,” one post read.

Another added: “I can only assume Billy Vunipola is shaking his head at himself. That was more red than Wyoming.”

Many felt that it was ‘dumb’, ‘reckless’ and ‘out of control’ from the back-rower.

Vunipola is now likely to miss Saracens’ second Champions Cup fixture against Connacht and possibly the upcoming matches this month against the Sale Sharks and Newcastle Falcons.

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