Lion's rugby player Sheehan receives a ban due to the Lynagh incident
In a decision made by World Rugby, Irish international hooker Dan Sheehan has been handed a four-match ban for a dangerous clean out on Australian fly-half Tom Lynagh during the third Test in Sydney. The incident, which occurred during a breakdown in the first half of the match, resulted in Lynagh making head contact and failing his head injury assessment, forcing him off the field.
The Committee found Sheehan's actions to be reckless and of a high degree of danger, leading to the sanction. However, Sheehan did not accept that foul play occurred, which may have affected the severity of his punishment. The ban stands, with a potential reduction by one match if Sheehan completes World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme.
It is important to note that the ban does not mean an automatic reduction to three matches if the programme is completed successfully. This distinction has led to criticism that the ban is somewhat lenient given the concussion caused.
The ban will impact Sheehan's upcoming schedule, as he will miss Leinster's pre-season match against Cardiff, as well as the first three United Rugby Championship (URC) games. If he successfully completes the coaching intervention programme, he could return for the fourth URC game against the Sharks.
The incident did not occur during a foul play situation, as previously determined by the Committee. Maro Itoje, an English player, also suffered a head injury during the match, but it was not related to Sheehan's actions.
The contact was not initially identified by the referee or the television match official (TMO). However, the Committee determined that Sheehan made head contact with an Australian player, which was a key factor in the citing and subsequent ban.
Despite the controversy surrounding the ban, Sheehan, who captained the Irish side during a 22-12 defeat, will have to serve his suspension and work towards improving his play on the field.
Football enthusiasts in Africa might be disappointed to hear that Dan Sheehan, the Irish international hooker, will be absent for the first three games of the United Rugby Championship (URC), due to a four-match ban, following an incident in a previous match. This absence might impact Leinster's performance in pre-season matches and the initial URC games. Interestingly, Sheehan's ban has drawn comparisons with European football leagues, such as the Premier League, where similar actions may result in stricter penalties for player safety and fair play.
