Disciplinary: Samuel Bedlow, Bristol Bears

The case of Samuel Bedlow, Bristol Bears, was heard today by Charles Cuthbert as Sole Judicial Officer. 

Bedlow received a red card and was charged with dangerous tackling, contrary to World Rugby law 9.13 during a game against Gloucester on 22 April.  He accepted the charge and received a four week ban, however, subject to completing the World Rugby Coaching Intervention programme he will be free again to play again from 5 June*.

Sole Judicial Officer, Charles Cuthert said: “The player accepted the charge of dangerous tackling. He talked through the footage and explained his action in setting for the tackle and how it was that contact was made higher than intended. Gloucester Rugby confirmed that their player was not injured and required no further medical attention.

 
"When considering all of the factors relating to the incident, it was determined that the appropriate entry point was mid-range (noting that where there is head contact, the mandatory minimum mid-range entry point applies). The player had accepted the charge at the earliest opportunity and apologised to the Gloucester player immediately on-field. The only matter preventing full mitigation was a previous red card for a Tip Tackle in February 2021.

 
"Partial mitigation was allowed thereby reducing the six-week suspension entry point by two weeks.

 
"The player will miss the next four matches subject to successful completion of the World Rugby Coaching Intervention which will reduce the ban to three meaningful weeks.”