FRANCE LOCK Pascal Pape is still considering whether to appeal his 10-week ban for kneeing Jamie Heaslip in the back, according to coach Philippe Saint-Andre.
The incident occurred during the Six Nations meeting between France and Ireland earlier this month, with Pape shown a yellow card at the time by referee Wayne Barnes.
Some felt the offence – which left Heaslip with three fractured vertebrae - merited a red card, although Saint-Andre claimed it had been accidental.
Pape has since apologised to Heaslip, but Saint-Andre says the second row is still thinking about an appeal.
“I find the punishment is very, very severe,” the coach said.
“It was his last Six Nations, it is a shame it will finish like that for him and the France team. Pascal, and the lawyers from the Federation and Stade Francais will reflect on whether to appeal.
“As a coach one is eager to tell him to appeal but if it is to risk a heavier punishment…that is really for the club to decide as it is Stade Francais who pay his wages.”
Joke.. Have lost all respect for Saint-Andre after this.. Great player, terrible coach!
Hope he does appeal it and they double it!!!!
Pape should have thought of that prio to kneeing heaslip in the back and fracturing 3 vertibraes.
Awwwww so it is Au revoir
Saint-Andre is a madman!! Although it’s not that serious luckily he still broke his back like.. 10 weeks is lenient ,it realy should be at least 4 times the duration of heaslisp’s rehab.
No point in appealing. Even if they reduced his ban by half he’ll still miss rest of 6 nations which is his priority.
Even the French coach acknowledges that there’s a chance his ban could lengthen if he reopens it.
Count himself lucky and say nothing. Was very fortunate it wasnt more severe.
He should definitely appeal. Very harsh punishment
Surely if youre innocent and your own reputation is something you care about whats there to take time considering… however if not ….. well
there should be a coma after luckily there lads,makes for horrible reading without it.