Conraad van Vuuren suspension adds to Lions’ front-row concerns ahead of crucial URC stretch

Should he complete the World Rugby tackle school programme, his suspension will be reduced by one week, which would allow him to return for the Connacht clash.

“After an act of foul play by player No 18 (Conraad van Vuuren), referee Christopher Allison showed the player a red card in the 68th minute of the game under Law 9.13 – a player must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously,” a URC statement on the outcome of his hearing said.

“Dangerous tackling includes, but is not limited to, tackling or attempting to tackle an opponent above the line of the shoulders, even if the tackle starts below the line of the shoulders.”

In his response during the disciplinary hearing, Van Vuuren accepted that he had committed an act of foul play which warranted a red card. The judicial officer also found that the tackle met the red-card threshold, with a mid-range entry point warranting a six-week ban.

“The player received two weeks’ mitigation due to his acknowledgement of culpability, his apology and good conduct throughout the disciplinary process, which results in a four-match suspension,” the statement read.