Owen Farrell’s destiny rests within the purview of one of the nation’s eminent legal experts during a disciplinary hearing scheduled for Tuesday.
The fly-half carved his place in history as the inaugural English player to witness a yellow card’s transformation into a red card, a consequence of the newly introduced ‘Bunker’ review mechanism. This pivotal verdict arose from a high tackle on Taine Basham.
Renowned as a seasoned figure with participation in five World Cups and three British and Irish Lions tours, Richard Smith KC holds the distinction of being hailed as the nation’s foremost rugby legal representative, further acclaimed as one of the United Kingdom’s most esteemed practitioners in serious criminal law.
Tasked with championing the case of the England captain, Smith’s expertise will be brought to bear in a virtual assembly following Farrell’s expulsion due to a perilous high tackle during the 19-17 triumph over Wales at Twickenham last Saturday.
Recognised by Guildhall Chambers and Partners as a barrister who extracts remarkable outcomes from scenarios that appear insurmountable, Smith notably achieved a reduction of Farrell’s previous six-game suspension for a similar tackle during his tenure with Saracens, effectively diminishing it to a mere three games.
Smith’s Guildhall Chambers profile underscores his profound comprehension of the sport and its regulatory framework, depicting him as an adept advocate who perpetually commands his brief, demonstrating mastery over pertinent legal principles while exuding persuasive prowess.
Owen Farrell red card:
Can you name name every England captain since 2003 World Cup triumph?
19 England captains to remember, five minutes to do it. You’d better get cracking…
Can you name every England men’s captain since Martin Johnson hoisted up the Webb Ellis Cup following their World Cup triumph in 2003? As of August 13th, 2023.