Rugby: Waikato flanker suspended

Waikato flanker Jordan Smiler has been suspended for a week following a dangerous tackle on Canterbury's Tim Bateman during an Air NZ Cup rugby match last Friday.

Smiler today appeared before the New Zealand Rugby Union judiciary after he was cited following the tackle, considered dangerous because it was high, late and without proper use of arms.

Smiler, appearing before judicial officer Peter Hobbs, accepted the allegation.

Hobbs said the video evidence confirmed Smiler effectively collided with Bateman, and the initial contact around the player's head and neck could have been avoided.

He accepted that Smiler's actions were reckless rather than intentional, but said they were nonetheless dangerous.

Smiler's suspension will run up to and including August 25.

- NZPA