RFU statement: Vunipola banned for 'very high level' recklessness

Mako Vunipola has been banned following his red card in last Sunday’s Gallagher Premiership win for Saracens at Newcastle – but the punishment doesn’t affect his availability for England in this November’s four-game Autumn Nations Series.

An RFU statement read: “The case of Mako Vunipola was heard yesterday evening [Tuesday], October 11, by an independent disciplinary panel chaired by Matthew O’Grady, sitting with Alastair Campbell and Mitch Read. 

“Vunipola was charged with dangerous play in a ruck or maul contrary to World Rugby law 9.20a after receiving a red card in the match against Newcastle Falcons on October 9. He received a three-week ban which may be reduced to two weeks if he successfully completes the World Rugby coaching intervention programme (CIP).  

“Vunipola will miss the following games:

• October 15 vs Bath Rugby (Premiership)
• October 17 vs London Irish (Premiership Cup)
• October 22 vs Exeter Chiefs (Premiership) * subject to completing CIP.”

The ten-page written judgement shed light on the outcome of the hearing, its sanctioning section reading: “There was a very high degree of recklessness because of the speed and force with which the player [Vunipola] propelled himself into the breakdown. Foul play was always likely to result from his action. There was no evidence (and nor was it argued by the RFU) that the foul play was intentional.”

Vunipola had been attempting a clear out at a ruck for Saracens only for it to result in dangerous head contact. The summary of the loosehead’s evidence read: “The player accepted he committed an act of foul play that justified a red card. The player said it was his role to get to the breakdown and he was a bit behind play because of the line break. 

“The player said he saw the back of Newcastle 15 and that was his target. We were told that the player committed himself and, after doing so, Newcastle 15’s head popped up. The player said he then clearly saw Newcastle 15’s head, but he could not change his target. 

“The player accepted he made direct contact with Newcastle 15’s head. He apologised for his actions and said he did so on the field too. We were told that the player did not intend to hurt Newcastle 15 or make head contact with him.”

Meanwhile, Wasps’ Jacob Umaga was charged for colliding with the jumper in the air, contrary to World Rugby law 9.17, after receiving a red card in the match against Northampton last Sunday.

He was given a three-week ban and the matches he will miss are to be determined following confirmation by the club – who have since been suspended from participating in the Premiership due to administration – as to when he is fit to return to play.

• Click here to read the full Mako Vunipola judgement