(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Dan Sheehan Handed Three-Match Suspension Following Foul Play Ruling
SYDNEY – August 5, 2025:
British and Irish Lions hooker Dan Sheehan has been handed a three-match suspension, following a charge under Law 9.20(a) for dangerous play at a ruck, during the recent test match against Australia at Accor Stadium on August 2.
The disciplinary decision was issued by an Independent Foul Play Review Committee (FPRC), chaired by Wang Shao-Ing (Singapore), with former international player Mike Mika (New Zealand) and former referee Valeriu Toma (Romania) serving as panel members.
Details of the Incident
Sheehan was cited for charging into a ruck, contrary to World Rugby’s Law 9.20(a). The committee reviewed match footage and written submissions, ultimately determining that the incident involved reckless conduct, including head contact and a high degree of danger, with no mitigating factors applicable.
Though Sheehan did not admit foul play or agree that the incident merited a citing, the panel found his actions to breach rugby’s safety standards.
Sanction Explained
Based on World Rugby’s guidelines in Regulation 17, the mid-range entry point for this type of foul is six matches. Due to Sheehan’s non-acceptance of fault, the committee decided not to apply the full 50% mitigation.
However, the suspension has been reduced to three matches conditional upon the successful completion of a coaching intervention program.
Matches Sheehan Will Miss
Dan Sheehan is suspended from the following fixtures:
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🗓️ 13 September 2025 – Leinster vs Cardiff (Pre-season)
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🗓️ 26 September 2025 – Leinster vs Stormers (United Rugby Championship)
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🗓️ 11 October 2025 – Leinster vs Sharks (URC)
✅ He will be eligible to return for the match on:
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🗓️ 18 October 2025 – Leinster vs Munster (URC), pending successful completion of coaching intervention.
What Is the FPRC?
The Foul Play Review Committee operates under World Rugby’s new expedited disciplinary process. This allows for quicker rulings without full hearings, unless the case is escalated. Decisions are based on video analysis, reports, and written statements without requiring live testimony from players or representatives.
