The Northampton Saints could be without their influential captain Dylan Hartley for Saturday's Heineken Cup re-match against Ulster at Ravenhill.
The England hooker has been cited in the aftermath of by the Citing Commissioner, Jean-Claude Legendre who was in attendance at last Friday's 25-6 victory for Ulster at Franklin's Gardens. Hartley is alleged to have struck his Ulster counter-part, Rory Best with his arm, during the second half of the match.
Details of the hearing date and the appointed independent Judicial Officer will be announced shortly.
If he's found guilty, Hartley could be facing at least a two-week ban.
Full ERC Statement:
ERC has received a Citing Complaint against Northampton Saints forward, Dylan Hartley (No 2), following the Heineken Cup Pool 4, Round 3 match against Ulster Rugby on Friday, 7 December 2012.
Hartley is alleged to have struck Ulster Rugby forward, Rory Best (No 2) with his arm, during the second half of the match at Franklin’s Gardens.
The complaint was made by Citing Commissioner, Jean-Claude Legendre (France).
Details of the hearing date and the appointed independent Judicial Officer will be announced shortly.
10.4(a) Punching or striking. A player must not strike an opponent with the fist or arm, including the elbow, shoulder, head or knee(s).
Under the IRB Recommended Sanctions for Offences Committed within the Playing Enclosure, Law 10.4 (a) carries the following penalties: Low End: 2 weeks; Mid Range: 5 weeks; Top End: 8+ to 52 weeks.
