Samu Kerevi to miss rest of Spring Tour after suspension

Wed, Nov 20, 2024, 9:00 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Samu Kerevi's yellow card is upgraded to red against Wales

Wallabies centre Samu Kerevi has copped a two match ban for his high shot during the Wallabies’ win over Wales.

Kerevi was sent off just after the break after collecting Wales flanker Jac Morgan high in the 32-point victory.

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The centre was returning in his first game back since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

However, the Wallabies powerhouse will instead miss the Test against Scotland on Monday.

The centre was already slated to return to Japan after the contest and will miss club side's Urayasu D-Rocks opening Rugby League One trial on December 1, free for the second on completion of World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme.

Kerevi brought up his 50th cap during the win over Wales and was left shattered after the carding.

“Australia number 12, Samu Kerevi, appeared before an independent Disciplinary Committee yesterday evening via video link having received a 20 minute red card for an act of foul play contrary to Law 9.13 in the match between Australia and Wales on Sunday 17th November 2024," a statement read.

“The independent Disciplinary Committee was chaired by Brenda Heather-Latu (Samoa), joined by former international referee Donal Courtney (Ireland) and former international player Becky Essex (England).

“The Disciplinary Committee has upheld the red card issued to the player and by applying World Rugby’s sanctioning provisions, have determined that the mid-range entry point of six weeks/matches was appropriate.

“In light of the player accepting he committed an act of foul play as well as other mitigating factors such as his clean disciplinary record, his remorse and good conduct,  they have applied the full 50% reduction in sanction, thus reducing the final sanction to three weeks/matches.”

It paves the way for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to return to the starting side after his starring debut against England.

Suaalii came off the bench during the victory in place of Kerevi at the end of his 20 minute red card.

Alternatively, Hamish Stewart is an option after his call-up from the Australia XV squad, with Josh Flook also joining the side following Dylan Pietsch’s injury.

The Wallabies will hunt for their first Grand Slam since 1984 as they face Scotland at Murrayfield on Monday (AEDT).

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