Worcester full-back Melani Nanai has been handed a three-match ban for the dangerous tackle that left England wing Jonny May with a neck injury and concussion. The incident occurred during Saturday's Gallagher Premiership match between Worcester and Gloucester, which ended May's afternoon in the opening quarter.
Nanai apologised on social media for the no-arms challenge, which saw his shoulder make direct contact with the crown of May's head. Referee Christophe Ridley described Nanai's arm as being in a 'slingshot positioning' as he tackled May, who was deep in Worcester's 22. The TMO replays confirmed the severity of the tackle, leading to a red card.
A disciplinary hearing applied the six-week mid-range entry point for contact with the head but halved the sanction due to mitigating factors. Nanai can resume playing on September 1. Gloucester's head of medical provided a report confirming May had a concussion and a left-sided cervical facet joint sprain at C4 and C5 levels.
Gloucester head coach George Skivington is awaiting news on May's fitness for Friday's clash with local rivals Bristol. 'Jonny's going through the protocols. There is certain HIA stuff he's got to go through with the medical team,' said Skivington. 'The protocol means he could turn it around and play, there's time.'
May, who has 56 England caps, returned to Gloucester after three years at Leicester. Skivington noted that May was 'itching' to play and was disappointed his return was cut short. Meanwhile, Skivington acknowledged the challenge posed by Bristol, who are pushing for the title. 'Bristol are a top-four team and they will be pushing for the title this year and they are full of superstar players,' he said.
