Matera banned for Italy test

Argentina flanker Pablo Matera will miss next month’s test against Italy after a disciplinary committee suspended him for two weeks for receiving a red card against South Africa.

Matera saw red for charging into a ruck in the 56th minute of Argentina’s 48-7 Rugby Championship defeat to South Africa in Mbombela on September 28.

The disciplinary committee upheld the red card.

“The player made contact without binding on to another player in the ruck and striking an opponent’s head with their shoulder at speed,” a statement by governing body Sanzaar said on Tuesday.

“These actions are deemed to constitute ‘foul play’ as per the new directive, thereby warranting a two-week suspension.

“Therefore, the player is suspended up to and including November 10.”

The ban rules out the firebrand former captain from the November 9 clash against Italy in Udine.

He will be available for the tests against Ireland in Dublin on November 15 and France in Paris on November 23 – SuperSport

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