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
Was never going to happen he’s a really top player for Madrid and would be a step down joining Arsenal in terms of winning leagues and champions league.. Also Arsenal are always to scared to spend the money needed for a player like this never going to happen..
If he was to choose arsenal or United I know what one he’d pick..
This got nothing to do with United lol
Spot on Irish.
Must saying Irish… #pedro
Just *
He joined Chelsea not Arsenal haha
I know but he should of signed for United ;)
U think he should of? Fair enough I see why bigger club.. Shame United didn’t meet the release clause they may regret it.. Still tho Arsenal still Danny Welback?
Or Welbeck did United get £17million for him?
Welbeck is a great addition to any squad, does a lot of dirty work for the team and is unselfish. He’s not a striker though. He plays better on the left
Well that’s that done. I was never one to believe media hype but I will admit they got me with this one.. F**** you media. But if arsenal don’t get a striker we can forget about challenging for the league
Thank feck that’s over!! Gutted that it’s not happening though! Get the finger out Wenger