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Hooper free to face All Blacks after SANZAR appeal dismissed

Michael Hooper has been given the green light to play for Australia in the Rugby Championship decider against New Zealand.

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.

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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.

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17 Comments
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    Mute Irishoversea
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    Aug 24th 2015, 5:56 PM

    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..

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:00 PM

    If he was to choose arsenal or United I know what one he’d pick..

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    Mute Irishoversea
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:02 PM

    This got nothing to do with United lol

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    Mute Dave Murray
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:02 PM

    Spot on Irish.

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:04 PM

    Must saying Irish… #pedro

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:04 PM

    Just *

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    Mute Irishoversea
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:05 PM

    He joined Chelsea not Arsenal haha

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:07 PM

    I know but he should of signed for United ;)

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    Mute Irishoversea
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:13 PM

    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?

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    Mute Irishoversea
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:13 PM

    Or Welbeck did United get £17million for him?

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:15 PM

    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

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    Mute Supernova
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    Aug 24th 2015, 5:53 PM

    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

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    Mute luke frankus
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    Aug 24th 2015, 6:02 PM

    Thank feck that’s over!! Gutted that it’s not happening though! Get the finger out Wenger

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