Otago Highlanders wing Kurt Baker was handed a six-week ban Monday for a dangerous tackle on Melbourne Rebels scrum-half Nic Stirzaker.
Baker pleaded guilty to the offence which occurred during the Highlanders 33-30 win over the Rebels in Dunedin on Friday, said South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Rugby (SANZAR).
It said the incident took place in the 12th minute of the match, when Baker lifted Stirzaker and drove him down so his neck made contact with the ground.
"The player (Stirzaker) was placed in a very vulnerable position and was fortunate not to be injured," SANZAR judicial officer Nicholas Davidson said.
Stirzaker was unhurt in the tackle and continued playing in the match.
The issue of dangerous tackles has been prominent in recent weeks after Australian rugby league player Alex McKinnon suffered a devastating spinal injury that has left him facing the prospect of never walking again.
Source: AFP
