23 Nov 2006

Pacific Islanders Alliance player banned for three weeks

7:54 am on 23 November 2006

The Pacific Islands flanker Viliami Vaki has been suspended for three weeks after being found guilty of a dangerous tackle on Scotland's Chris Cusiter.

The Scotland halfback needed surgery on a shoulder injury and has been ruled out for up to four months.

The Tongan drove Cusiter over the touchline early in the match, won 34-22 by the Scots at Murrayfield.

The ban rules him out of the Islanders' final tour game against Ireland on Sunday.

The Panel took Vaki's exemplary record, a heartfelt character reference from manager Joe Browne, as well as a glowing letter from PRL CEO Sakopo Lolohea into account before announcing the ban.