Hufanga suspended for five weeks

Sukanaialu Hufanga of Tonga has been suspended for five weeks after being found guilty of an act of foul play contrary to law 10(4)(j).

Following a review of broadcast footage, Hufanga was cited by Independent Citing Commissioner Steve Hinds (NZL) under Law 10.4(j) for a ‘dangerous tip tackle’ in the Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool A match against France in Wellington on 1 October.

Hufanga was suspended by Independent Judicial Officer Christopher Quinlan QC (ENG) in accordance with the Rugby World Cup 2011 Disciplinary process.

Having conducted a detailed review of all the evidence available, including all broadcast angles and additional evidence from the Player and submissions from his legal representative, the Judicial Officer upheld the Citing under law 10(4)(j).

With respect to the sanction, the offence was deemed to be mid-range (which has an entry point of six weeks). However, taking into account mitigating factors and the absence of aggravating factors, the Player was suspended for a period of five weeks.

The suspension take effect immediately will run up to and include 6 November. He is free to resume playing on 7 November.

The player has 48 hours in which to appeal from the time he was informed of the decision.