In what has been a tumultuous start for England in the Rugby World Cup, Tom Curry, the dynamic 25-year-old back-row player from Sale, is set to miss England’s upcoming crucial matches against Japan and Chile. The reason? A red card he received during Saturday’s hard-fought victory over Argentina.
Curry’s disciplinary hearing took place on Tuesday, and the verdict was clear: he will be sidelined for the Pool C fixtures against Japan this Sunday and Chile on September 23rd. This news is a significant blow for England, as Curry is a vital part of their forward pack, known for his relentless work rate and fierce tackles.
The incident leading to Curry’s red card occurred in the opening minutes of the match when he made head-to-head contact in a tackle with Argentina’s Juan Cruz Mallia. Initially, the referee showed him a yellow card, but after a ‘bunker’ review, it was escalated to a red card. This decision undoubtedly had an impact on the outcome of the game.
The independent disciplinary committee handed Curry a three-match ban, a significant penalty. However, there’s a glimmer of hope for England fans, as this suspension can be reduced to just two games if Curry successfully completes the World Rugby coaching program on tackling. This means that Curry could make a comeback for England’s final Pool C showdown against Samoa on October 7th, provided he diligently fulfills the program’s requirements.
England’s captain, Owen Farrell, is also dealing with suspension issues. He will miss the Japan match due to a red card he received during a warm-up game against Wales in August. However, there is better news for England’s number eight, Billy Vunipola, who has completed his suspension after a recent dismissal against Ireland and is now available for selection against Japan.
Curry’s red card marks a troubling trend for England, as he becomes the third player from the squad to be sent off in their past four matches. England’s attack coach, Richard Wigglesworth, expressed the team’s commitment to discipline and player safety, acknowledging the challenges of rugby as an invasion sport.
“It would be a lot easier on ourselves if we had 15 men on the field,” Wigglesworth stated. “What I would say is it’s an invasion sport, and, let’s be honest, it was an accident. We want to make sure we’re playing as safe a game as we can and I completely understand the rules, but that doesn’t mean accidents won’t happen that result in the decision [Curry’s red card] that we got. We showed that we’re a disciplined team and we want to be incredibly disciplined.”
England started their World Cup campaign on a positive note, defeating Argentina 27-10 in their opening pool match in Marseille. George Ford, the fly-half, was the hero of the day, contributing all 27 points for the team. However, the absence of Curry and Farrell in the upcoming games will certainly present challenges for England as they aim to progress in the tournament.
Stay tuned for more updates on England’s Rugby World Cup journey as they navigate through the trials and tribulations of this highly competitive event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup discipline
What led to Tom Curry’s suspension in the Rugby World Cup?
Tom Curry’s suspension in the Rugby World Cup resulted from a red card he received during England’s match against Argentina. He made head-to-head contact in a tackle with Juan Cruz Mallia within the first three minutes of the game.
What are the immediate consequences of Curry’s red card?
As a result of his red card, Tom Curry will miss England’s next two Rugby World Cup matches against Japan and Chile in Pool C.
Is there a chance for Curry to have his suspension reduced?
Yes, there is a possibility of reducing Curry’s suspension from three matches to just two if he successfully completes the World Rugby coaching program on tackling.
How does this impact England’s squad?
Curry’s suspension adds to England’s woes, as he is a crucial player in the forward pack. Additionally, England’s captain, Owen Farrell, is also facing suspension, while Billy Vunipola has just completed his ban.
How has England performed in the Rugby World Cup so far?
England began their World Cup campaign with a 27-10 victory over Argentina, with fly-half George Ford playing a pivotal role by scoring all 27 points for the team. However, the team’s discipline, highlighted by Curry’s red card, remains a concern.
More about Rugby World Cup discipline
- BBC Sport – Tom Curry: England back row to miss two games after Rugby World Cup red card
- Rugby World Cup official website
- World Rugby coaching program
- England Rugby official website
2 comments
gud article, but they shud b more diciplined!
rugby is tuff, but curry’s suspension hurts england.