The RFU have provided an update to the availability of Sale Sharks back row Sam Dugdale, after the player was sent off in last weekend’s defeat to Saracens. Dugdale recieved two yellow cards at the StoneX Stadium, first for a high tackle and secondly for illegally disrupting the breakdown, as Saracens built a dangerous attack.
Dugdale accepted both of the yellow cards without any on-field complaints, and has since been infront of a judiciary panel to decide his suspension. Sale Sharks fans will be happy to now that Dugdale will not miss any matches, and is in fact available to play in tomorrow’s home match against Gloucester Rugby.
A statement from the RFU read: “The case of Sam Dugdale, Sale Sharks, was heard on papers by Judicial Officer Matthew Weaver KC. He was shown two yellow cards, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.27, during a game against Saracens on 28 September 2024.
“The player accepted the charge and the on field sanction was deemed sufficient so the player is available to play immediately.”
“The Player did not seek to challenge the foul play yellow card (no challenge can be brought
against a technical yellow card). As such, the charge was accepted.
“The Player has a clear disciplinary record and would ordinarily be entitled to mitigation from the entry point however in this instance, the entry point is sending off sufficient and no reduction can therefore be applied. The sanction remains sending off sufficient.”