When your biceps are weapons, treat them as such.
David Pocock has released a statement via his website following his three week ban for choking out Chiefs forward Michael Leitch.
VIDEO: David Pocock has received his punishment for choking out an opponent. Rugby doing itself no favours again https://t.co/6vG3wGSBbK
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) April 5, 2016
The Wallabies back-row escaped on-field sanction at the time but was done by video evidence. The suspension means Pocock will miss two Super Rugby games. Pocock stated:
‘Yesterday I faced the judiciary for the first time in my rugby career. I am incredibly disappointed with my actions. I endeavour to play the game I love in a way that reflects the kind of toughness and decency I think rugby can teach us.
‘On Saturday night I did not live up to those standards, placing Michael Leitch in danger by binding on his neck in a maul. It was not my intention to hurt Michael, but in these sorts of circumstances it is not intention that matters.
‘I am grateful that World Rugby and SANZAAR are concerned about making the game safer for all of us.
‘I would like to take this opportunity to apologise again to Michael. And to apologise to the Chiefs, Brumbies and all those who follow rugby. I’d also like to apologise to my team mates who I will let down over the next few weeks while suspended.’
Given the severity of the offence, Pocock was lucky to escape a longer ban.
The coming months and years will only prove whether the faith of the sanctioning officials has been merited.
