Parisse suspended for eight weeks

Eurosport - Sun, 28 Jun 09:16:00 2009

Italy captain Sergio Parisse was suspended for eight weeks over an eye-gouging incident in his team's loss 27-6 to New Zealand on Saturday.

Sergio Parisse, RUGBY - 0

Parisse was cited to appear before an International Rugby Board judiciary after he appeared to briefly make contact with the eyes of New Zealand lock Isaac Ross during the second half of the match.

The judiciary viewed television footage of the incident and listened to evidence from players and officials at an inquiry in Christchurch.

The judiciary found that Parisse had not acted intentionally but deemed his actions were reckless and warranted a penalty.

Parisse was charged with a lower-range offence which carried a recommended sentence of 12 weeks but was reduced to eight weeks because of mitigating circumstances.

The panel noted that the Italian skipper's initial contact with Ross had been on his cheek before his hands slipped to the eye. The contact with the eye was only brief and Ross was not injured in the incident.

Because Italy are now in their off-season, Parisse's suspension was delayed until the start of the Italian club season on August 2. He would be eligible to resume playing on September 26.

Reuters

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  1. I agree with Bren. If that act of violent and intent­ thuggery was a Lion the Boks would be calling for a Red­ Card. As for de Villiers defending Burger, it shows­ they would win at all costs. O'Connell was right in­ his comments regardinng only playing for 40 minutes in­ each test, you have to perform for the entire game.The­ Lions have been superb, a side to be proud of.

    From RICHARD B, on Sun 28 Jun 9:17PM

  2. while spring boks get slap on wrist.

    From bren, on Sun 28 Jun 8:43PM
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