Semi Radradra cops a campaign-ending ban for his Fiji red card

Semi Radradra’s Autumn Nations Series is over after he copped a ban following last Sunday’s red card during Fiji’s win over Wales. Playing on the wing in Cardiff, the 32-year-old was initially only yellow carded by referee Luc Ramos following his shoulder-to-head, first-half collision with Welsh full-back Cameron Winnett.

The decision was sent for review by the TMO bunker at Principality Stadium and the foul play was soon upgraded to a red card, leaving Radradra cited following his team’s 24-19 victory.

That disciplinary hearing has now taken place and Radradra has been banned for three games, a sanction that can be reduced to two if he successfully completes World Rugby’s tackle school.

A statement read: “Fiji number 11 Semi Radradra appeared before an independent disciplinary committee via video link having received a 20 minute red card for an act of foul play contrary to law 9.13 in the match between Fiji and Wales last Sunday.

“The independent disciplinary committee was chaired by Philippe Cavalieros (France), joined by former international referee Valeriu Toma (Romania) and former international player Stefan Terblanche (South Africa).

“Having accepted that the act of foul play justified the red card and by applying World Rugby’s sanctioning provisions, the disciplinary committee determined that the mid-range entry point of six weeks was appropriate.

“The full 50 per cent mitigation applied, based on a clean disciplinary record and having shown remorse, reducing the sanction to three weeks. The suspension will cover the following matches: November 16 – Spain versus Fiji, November 23 – Ireland versus Fiji, November 30 – Pau versus Lyon.

“The player has additionally been given permission to apply to take part in World Rugby’s coaching intervention programme to substitute the final match of their sanction, which is aimed at modifying specific techniques and technical issues that contributed to the foul play.”