Leinster's Fergus McFadden has received a six-week ban for "an act of foul play involving contact to the head", after he appeared to head-butt Ulster's Sean Ready in a recent inter-provincial clash. The ban means he will miss the rest of the season, including his side's upcoming Champions Cup final against Saracens.
While the incident was reviewed by the referee at the time, George Clancy ultimately decided against issuing a card.
"I'm alright, but I got a headbutt in the face!"
Ulster No 8 Sean Reidy is unhappy with referee George Clancy's decison not to show a card to Leinster's Fergus McFadden following an inconclusive TMO.
#ULSvLEI #GuinnessPRO14 pic.twitter.com/ElGghjpnJA— eir Sport (@eirSport) April 27, 2019
McFadden was soon cited for the incident however, with the disciplinary panel deciding on a six week ban. in order to ensure the ban covers 'meaningful matches', it will conclude on August 25th. A statement read:
The Disciplinary Panel, comprising Roddy MacLeod, Frank Hadden and Beth Dickens , concluded that the player had committed an act of foul play involving contact to the head.
Following a Disciplinary Hearing today via video conference, Fergus McFadden has been banned for six weeks. He will be free to play from midnight on Sunday, 25 August, to ensure the ban accounts for meaningful matches played by Leinster Rugby and Irish Rugby.
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) May 2, 2019
He will now miss the upcoming Champions Cup final against Saracens, while he will also be ineligible for Leinster's remaining involvement in the Pro14 play-offs.
The ban would also rule him out of Ireland's two opening World Cup warmups, should he be selected.
