Sean Wainui cleared of dangerous tackle

Taranaki winger Sean Wainui has had his four-week suspension for a dangerous tackle overturned.

Wainui was initially handed a four-week suspension after he was cited for a dangerous tackle during his team’s unsuccessful challenge for the Ranfurly Shield against Otago on Sunday 8 September.

Wainui appealed his suspension and the New Zealand Rugby Appeal Council allowed the appeal, finding that the head contact was, on balance, accidental. This was with the benefit of additional evidence.

The Council reheard the matter in part including additional evidence from the match officials. The Council noted Wainui showed concern for the tackled player’s welfare.

The Council made it clear that dangerous tackles will continue to be treated seriously, but that on their review of the evidence, the actions of Wainui did not constitute a dangerous tackle or warranted any more than a Citing Commissioner warning.

Wainui has already missed Taranaki’s Mitre 10 Cup matches against Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay, but is now available for selection for their remaining three round robin matches.