Sale Sharks and England centre Manu Tuilagi has copped a four-match ban after his red card against Northampton Saints on Saturday.
If he completes World Rugby’s coaching intervention school, Tuilagi will be available for England’s final Six Nations match against Ireland.
The centre has fallen down the pecking order for the Red Rose since Steve Borthwick took charge of the side, but could be recalled in time for the final Test if required.
Manu Tuilagi’s red
Referee Ian Tempest gave Tuilagi his marching orders in the 14th minute of the Premiership match after being prompted by TMO Claire Hodnett about a potential foul play.
From a lineout, Sale Sharks spun the ball out to Tuilagi, who brushed off the first attempted tackle from Fraser Dingwall.
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He was tackled around the ankles by Fin Smith and looked to fend off Tommy Freeman, but Tuilagi’s forearm collided with the Saints winger’s throat.
🟥 Manu Tuilagi's red card. #GallagherPrem pic.twitter.com/V1Ct4XDDF1
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) February 18, 2023
In the full judgement released by the RFU, Tuilagi unequivocally accepted the charge stating that he took full responsibility for his actions.
Tuilagi’s actions were deemed reckless by judicial officer Jeremy Summers and warranted a mid-range entry point, a six-week ban.
Due to his red card for his tackle on George North during the 2020 Six Nations, Tuilagi wasn’t afforded a full 50% mitigation reduction.
Therefore, he was given a 33% reduction and will miss Sale Sharks’ matches against Exeter Chiefs, Saracens, London Irish and Cardiff Blues.
His four-week ban will be reduced to three weeks if he completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.
Tuilagi will miss the following games:
• 25/02 v Exeter Chiefs
• 05/03 v Saracens.
• 12/03 v London Irish
• 01/04 v Cardiff Blues*
* Removed on successful completion of World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.