Folau to miss Rebels v Waratahs on Friday, but decision being appealed
Thursday 28 June 2018 06:40, UK
Australia's Israel Folau has been banned for one match after making contact in the air with Ireland captain Peter O'Mahony during the third Test in Sydney.
The ban means Folau, who plays for the Waratahs, will miss Friday's Super Rugby match against the Rebels.
Rugby Australia lodged an appeal against the decision on Thursday.
The Australian full-back was yellow-carded and subsequently given a citing commissioner's warning over two aerial contests after O'Mahony, who was lifted by a team-mate, landed awkwardly.
The citing commissioner, New Zealand's Michael O'Leary, said Folau had "placed his left hand on O'Mahony's chest", which had pulled the flanker "over and he toppled to the ground".
Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson believes the outcome of the decision may have implications on aerial contests in rugby going forward.
"I believe if he does get some time, there are some real implications around the law-making process," he said.
"It really makes us look at the kick contest area and exactly how we can provide a law that provides for what is happening in terms of the collisions and guys landing on their heads."
Ireland clinched a historic series win with their 20-16 victory on Saturday.
