Highlanders flyhalf Sam Gilbert will not feature again in Super Rugby Pacific after he was suspended for five games for his dangerous cleanout on Waratahs flanker Michael Hooper.
Gilbert was issued a red card during their 32-20 defeat after dumping the Wallabies captain on his head as he looked to clean him out.
Hooper, who was returning from a concussion, called for a lengthy ban after the incident.
“I don’t wish that on anyone,” Hooper told the broadcast after the game.
“These things happen in this game but I was disappointed that it happened to me. He [Gilbert] should miss some weeks I think.”
SANZAAR has agreed with this sentiment, handing Gilbert a five-match ban after deeming the incident a 'mid-range' offence.
"Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Aaron Lloyd, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the Red Card under Law 9.18," Foul Play Review Committee Chairman Michael Heron QC ruled.
"With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a mid-range entry point of 10 weeks due to a combination of features including the degree of recklessness exhibited and the danger posed to the tackled player.
"Taking into account mitigating factors including the Player's clean judicial record, his acceptance of foul play, the Foul Play Review Committee reduced the suspension to 5 weeks.
"The player is therefore suspended for 5 weeks, up to and including 25 June 2022.”
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Gilbert will miss Sunday's clash with the Melbourne Rebels and any other potential finals match-up.
The winger turned playmaker had impressed since making the switch to flyhalf, producing a starring role in their win over the Western Force a fortnight ago.
The Highlanders currently sit in eighth spot, needing to win over the Rebels to secure their spot in the finals.
