Lions fans breathe a huge sigh of relief because Sean O’Brien has not been banned for final Test

Sean O'Brien has been cleared to play the final Test against New Zealand after his case was heard this morning.

The Irish international was cited for dangerous play after his hit on Waisake Noholo but has escaped a ban. His hearing lasted about four hours and was found not guilty of wrongdoing. https://twitter.com/NialFoster/status/881481942729859074 https://twitter.com/whiskeycully/status/881272603591274499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sportsjoe.ie%2Frugby%2Fsean-obrien-cited-128688 Warren Gatland will be relieved after hearing the news given that O'Brien played a starring role against the All Blacks on Saturday as the side went on to force a deciding Test after coming out victors 24-21. He thanked the panel for their handling of the incident.

"We'd like to thank the panel for their professional and diligent approach. Sean is a tough but fair player and we are pleased that the panel dismissed the citing.” 

Sean O'Brien said: "Firstly, I hope Waisake is ok. I'd like to thank the panel for carefully considering the case and I am looking forward to re-joining the whole squad to prepare for the final Test.”