Jonny May, the Gloucester winger, recently back from his World Cup stint with England, faced disciplinary action following his first game of the season.
In Gloucester’s recent loss to Bath, May was handed a three-game suspension due to a dangerous tackle he executed. This incident involved a head-to-head collision with Bath’s centre, Ollie Lawrence, resulting in a broken nose for Lawrence.
Despite the injury, Lawrence was able to complete the match and remains available for Bath’s upcoming fixtures.
May, acknowledging his fault, has the opportunity to lessen his suspension to two games by participating in a World Rugby coaching intervention program.
This match marked May’s return to Gloucester post-World Cup, after which he declared his retirement from international play with England.
The contentious tackle occurred in the first half, away from the ball, near a ruck. Following a citation on Tuesday, May appeared before an independent disciplinary panel.
In a statement, May expressed relief that Lawrence could continue playing, while apologizing for the harm inflicted. He emphasized his commitment to improving his gameplay, particularly in decision-making and breakdown techniques.
May’s suspension sidelines him for Gloucester’s upcoming Premiership games against Exeter (away, 19 November), Leicester (home, 25 November), and possibly against Bristol (away, 2 December).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jonny May Suspension
Who is Jonny May?
Jonny May is a professional rugby player, serving as a winger for Gloucester. He recently returned to the club after participating in the World Cup with England.
Why has Jonny May been banned?
May has been banned for three games following a dangerous tackle in the match against Bath, where he collided head-on with Bath’s centre Ollie Lawrence, causing Lawrence to break his nose.
Can Jonny May reduce his suspension period?
Yes, Jonny May can reduce his ban to two games if he completes a World Rugby coaching intervention programme.
Did the incident affect the injured player, Ollie Lawrence?
Despite the injury, Ollie Lawrence was able to finish the match and is eligible to play in Bath’s next game.
What are the consequences of Jonny May’s suspension?
As a result of the suspension, May will miss Gloucester’s Premiership games against Exeter, Leicester, and potentially Bristol.
Has Jonny May commented on the incident?
Yes, in a written statement, Jonny May expressed his relief that Lawrence could continue playing despite the injury and apologized for the harm caused. He also committed to working on improving his gameplay, especially in decision making and breakdown techniques.
More about Jonny May Suspension
- Jonny May’s Career Profile
- Gloucester Rugby Official Site
- World Rugby Coaching Programme
- Premiership Rugby Schedule
3 comments
head-on-head collisions are no joke guys… glad Lawrence is okay, player safety should always be top priority in the game
so Jonny May gets banned just like that?? seems a bit harsh for a single tackle but rules are rules I guess…
It’s tough seeing May sidelined like this, especially after his return from the World Cup. really hope he comes back stronger, Gloucester needs him!!