Scotland’s Scott Cummings is sent off for a week after TMO upheld the red card

By Priscilla Jepchumba

Scotland lock Scott Cummings has been banned for one match after a foul on Franco Mostert during the match in which Scotland lost 32-15 to South Africa. Cummings was initially shown a yellow card for the foul. However, following review by the TMO, the yellow card was upgraded to a red card, leaving the Scotland squad with just fourteen players for the remainder of the match.

Initially, Cummings and Darge attempted to tackle Mostert, but Cummings accidentally fell on Mostert’s leg, posing a significant risk of injury. Although the offense was initially deemed worthy of only a yellow card, a replay review led to the decision of a red card for foul play as it breached the World Rugby law against lower limb targeting.

“Scotland number five Scott Cummings appeared before an independent disciplinary committee via video link after being shown a 20-minute red card for an act of foul play contrary to law 9.20(e) in the match between Scotland and South Africa on Sunday 10,” the spokesperson said. the disciplinary committee.

Cummings pleaded guilty at the disciplinary meeting but denied any intentionality behind his actions. The independent commission initially imposed a two-week suspension, but after reviewing his disciplinary record they reduced it to one week.

As a result of this ban, Cummings will be unavailable for Scotland’s friendly against Portugal on November 16, 2024. The initial yellow card was upgraded to a red card following a controversial incident that sparked criticism on social media, with some claiming this was the was the case. unintentionally cynical.

Some fans speculated that the incident was similar to a ‘croc-roll’, a rugby technique that was recently banned. Ultimately, officials concluded that Cummings’ contact with Mostert’s leg was indeed risky.

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend acknowledged the missed opportunities and unfortunate circumstances that hampered their chances of victory as he expressed his frustration over the red card incident that affected their play.

After the match, Townsend thanked the team but emphasized the importance of taking advantage of opportunities. On the other hand, Cummings may find some relief if his ban coincides with Scotland’s friendly against Portugal, amid growing concerns about the need for improved policies to help referees identify dangerous play during disruptions.