AUSTRALIA VICE-CAPTAIN Michael Hooper is free to play New Zealand in Saturday’s Rugby Championship decider after his one-week ban was not extended.
Hooper was cited for a punch on Nicolas Sanchez during the Wallabies’ 34-9 win over Argentina on July 25.
SANZAR - the governing body for Australia, New Zealand and South Africa rugby – appealed the decision claiming that the punishment was not severe enough, while Australia also challenged the sanction as they felt it was too harsh.
However, a SANZAR Appeals Committee has dismissed both challenges, freeing the flanker to feature against the All Blacks in the opening Bledisloe Cup clash at the ANZ Stadium that will decide who wins the Rugby Championship.
“I’m glad it’s wrapped up and I can really look forward to this week and moving forward into the first Bledisloe,” Hooper said.
“It’s been a little bit tough but I have been preparing as if I’ve been right to play and I’ll be trying to get into the team for this week.”
Whether or not Hooper starts against the All Blacks remains to be seen. The 23-year-old wore the number 7 jersey in the win against South Africa on the opening day, before dropping to the bench against Argentina, with David Pocock starting.
- Omnisport
