Blues number eight Hoskins Sotutu has been handed a three-week suspension following a dangerous tackle on Hurricanes’ Peter Lakai during their weekend victory.
The red-card incident saw the Blues finish their first win of the season with 14 men and leaves them without Sotutu for crucial upcoming matches against the Brumbies, Chiefs, and possibly the Crusaders.
However, he could return early if he completes a coaching intervention programme.
The Super Rugby Judiciary deemed the tackle a mid-range offence but halved the original six-week ban due to Sotutu’s clean disciplinary record and acceptance of the charge.
The Blues may also be without Dalton Papali’i, who suffered a head injury during the match.
