Wales international learns disciplinary fate after ‘admitting offence’
Sale Sharks prop WillGriff John will miss at least two matches after copping a ban.
Wales and Sale Sharks front-rower WillGriff John has been handed a three-match ban following an incident in his side’s 28-16 defeat to Bath last weekend.
The tighthead prop, who came off the bench in the second-half at the Rec last weekend, was initially shown a yellow card after making head contact with fellow Wales international Archie Griffin at a ruck, but upon review it was deemed to be a banable offence.
His ban will be reduced to two should he complete the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme, also known as tackle school.
WillGriff John handed three-match ban after PREM yellow card
As a result of his ban, John will now miss Sale’s upcoming clash with Newcastle Red Bulls this Friday night, as well as their round four visit to Saracens; however, should he complete tackle school will be available to play against Leicester Tigers at the end of the month.
In a statement, the RFU said: “The case of Willgriff John, Sale Sharks, was chaired by Sam Hillas KC sitting with Harry Gaunt and Serena Stirling.
“John was cited for dangerous play in a ruck, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.20(a), during a game against Bath Rugby on Friday 3rd October.
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“John admitted the offence and received a three-match ban, which will be reduced to two if he successfully completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme (CIP).”
With John now sat on the naughty step, it could give an opportunity for one of their fringe props to lay a claim to that number 18 shirt. James Harper and Patreece Bell both featured in their PREM Cup win over Bristol Bears back in September, while England U20s star Tye Raymont also has PREM experience under his belt.
England international Asher Opoku-Fordjour will likely retain the starting jersey this weekend, with the 21-year-old impressing in both of Sale’s PREM games thus far.
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