Independent Disciplinary update: Sarah Beckett Decision
England number 8, Sarah Beckett, today appeared before an independent Disciplinary Committee via video link having received a red card for an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.20 (d) in the match between Italy and England on Sunday 24 March 2024.
The independent Disciplinary Committee consisted of Juan Pablo Spirandelli – Chair (Argentina), Jamie Corsi (Wales) and Bogdan Zebega (Romania).
The player admitted that she had committed an act of foul play but contended that it had not been worthy of a red card. However, the Disciplinary Committee – having considered all the available evidence and submissions from the player and her representatives - upheld the red card decision.
As for sanction, by applying World Rugby’s mandatory sanctioning provisions, the Disciplinary Committee determined that the incident warranted a mid-range entry point of six weeks suspension. Mitigating factors (the player’s remorse, good character and exemplary conduct at the hearing) were applied, reducing the six-week entry point by the full 50% to three weeks.
The suspension will cover the following matches;
30 March 2024 – England vs Wales, Six Nations
13 April 2024 – Scotland vs England, Six Nations
20 April 2024 – England vs Ireland, Six Nations
The player was reminded of her right of appeal.
Press Release can be found by clicking here
