Statement: Wales star banned ahead of England clash
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Wales U20s lock Tom Cottle has been handed a three-match ban following his red card against Scotland on Friday, 7 March 2025.
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The second-rower faced an independent Disciplinary Committee via video link last night, with Brenda Heather-Latu (Samoa) chairing the panel, alongside former referee Val Toma (Romania) and ex-England international Martyn Wood.
After reviewing the incident, the committee upheld the red card and determined that the offence warranted a mid-range entry point of six weeks. However, with Cottle accepting his wrongdoing and other mitigating factors considered, his suspension was cut in half to three matches.
Which matches will Cottle miss?
Cottle's suspension means he will sit out the following fixtures:
- 14 March 2025 – Wales vs England (U20s Six Nations)
- 22 March 2025 – Llandudno vs Mold (League 1 North)
- 29 March 2025 – Carmarthen Quins vs RGC (Super Rygbi Cymru)*
*The young lock can apply for World Rugby's Coaching Intervention Programme, which—if completed—would see his ban reduced to two matches instead.
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Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland's pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland's recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he'll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster's second row. He's quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England's standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl's dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions' back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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