Rugby: Double show of sidelining

Counties Manukau loose forward Koula Tukino is facing possible double jeopardy - a date with rugby's judicial committee and being sidelined by concussion.

The Steelers are still awaiting a medical opinion on Tukino, who was one of several players involved in violent incidents during the match against Taranaki in New Plymouth on Sunday.

The New Zealand Rugby Football Union has delayed until today announcing which players will face hearings, because of the number of incidents involved.

The citing commissioner reviewed four incidents involving three players from each side, and Steelers replacement forward George Stowers must appear tomorrow after being sent off for punching.

Tukino threw a punch at a scrum and then was felled by a blow from Taranaki flanker Darryl Fale. After going to the sin bin, he did not return. The Steelers believe Tukino was dazed by a blow from another player as he lay on the ground.

If the medics rule Tukino was concussed, he will automatically have to stand down.

The Steelers are out of contention for a place in the NPC first division semifinals. They are at home on Saturday to Northland, who scored a shock win over Canterbury in the sixth round.

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An injury to Black Ferns flanker Davida White looks to have paved the way for Wellington's Erin Rush to be included in the national women's rugby team.

White sustained a suspected broken arm in Auckland's 22-0 NPC final victory over Wellington at Athletic Park on Saturday, while Rush stood out in a forward pack that dominated their opponents.

Black Ferns trial teams are due to be announced on October 4 for the tri-series against Canada and United States in Palmerston North a week later.

Prop Gill Maher and lock Vanessa Masoe also had outstanding games, and veteran lock Rebecca Luia'ana was a huge force at rucks and mauls.

- Chris Rattue/NZPA