Nigel Owens keeping watch over England v Australia during the Cook Cup

Dominiko Maiwiriwiri Waqaniburotu of Fiji has been suspended for three weeks after admitting an act of foul play contrary to Law 10(4)(j).

Following a review of broadcast footage, Waqaniburotu was cited by Independent Citing Commissioner Stephen Hinds (New Zealand) under Law 10.4(j) for a ‘dangerous tip tackle’ in the Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool D match against South Africa in Wellington on 17 September.

Waqaniburotu was suspended by Independent Judicial Officer Christopher Quinlan QC (England) in accordance with the Rugby World Cup 2011 disciplinary process.

Having conducted a detailed review of all the evidence available, including all broadcast angles and additional evidence from the Player and submissions from his legal representative Mr Kieran Donnelly, the Judicial Officer upheld the Citing under Law 10(4)(j).

With respect to the sanction, the offence was deemed to be mid-range (which has an entry point of six weeks). However, taking into account mitigating factors including his admission, his excellent disciplinary record and remorse and the absence of aggravating factors, the Player was suspended for a period of three weeks.

In the context of the Rugby World Cup Tournament a week equates to one match. Therefore Waqaniburotu is suspended for Fiji’s matches against Samoa and Wales and thereafter the suspension will run up to and include October 9. He is free to resume playing on October 10.

The player has 48 hours in which to appeal from the time he was informed of the decision.