Leicester Tigers Coach Michael Cheika Banned Over Doctor Dispute

Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has received a two-week ban, with one week suspended, for disrespecting a doctor during a match. Cheika challenged the doctor's decision to remove a player due to a head injury. Leicester Tigers plan to seek clarification and may appeal the decision.

Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has been banned for two weeks, with one of those weeks suspended, following a disciplinary panel's ruling. The former Australia and Argentina coach was found guilty of disrespecting an Independent Match Day Doctor during a Premiership match against Exeter last month.

The RFU's statement noted the unusual nature of the case due to ambiguities surrounding decisions about head injuries. Nonetheless, the panel emphasized the importance of respecting medical rulings, leading to Cheika's penalty.

Cheika's infraction occurred when Leicester's Ollie Chessum and Solomone Kata collided with Exeter's Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. While Chessum was removed for a head injury assessment, Kata was not, which later resulted in further disciplinary actions. Leicester Tigers expressed their dissatisfaction with the ruling and are considering an appeal.

(With inputs from agencies.)