An independent Disciplinary Committee convened in London today (Thursday, 18 December, 2008), to consider if any further action was required following the sending-off of Jamie Cudmore, the ASM Clermont Auvergne lock (No 4)...

... in the Heineken Cup Round 4 Pool 1 match against Munster at Thomond Park on Saturday, 13 December, 2008.

The player was sent off by English referee Chris White in the 18th minute for punching.

The independent Disciplinary Committee was chaired by Christopher Quinlan (England) and also comprised Peter Brown (Scotland) and John Glackin (Ireland).

After considering the evidence available, the independent Disciplinary Committee determined that the offence was of the mid-range in the level of seriousness for a striking offence. Having taken into account any mitigating and aggravating factors the Committee suspended Mr. Cudmore for a period of five (5) weeks, from the date of the match Saturday, 13 December, 2008 up to and including Sunday, 18 January, 2009.

Notes to Editors

(i) Red Cards
a) The case of any player sent off in the Heineken Cup or European Challenge Cup game shall be adjudicated by an independent Disciplinary Committee as soon as is practicable.
b) Until the hearing the player is ineligible to play in any tournament.

(ii) Independent Disciplinary Committee
a) The independent Disciplinary Committee is chosen by the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Panel, Professor Lorne Crerar.
b) Both parties to the hearing (ERC and the player) have the right to appeal decisions of the independent Disciplinary Committee. Appeals must be lodged within 72 hours of receiving the full written decision from the Chairman of the independent Disciplinary Committee
c) The full written decision of the independent Disciplinary Committee will be available on www.ercrugby.com/discipline when the disciplinary process is complete