BRITISH and Irish Lions flanker Sean O’Brien is free to play in Saturday’s Test series decider against New Zealand after a citing complaint was dismissed.
O’Brien was reported by match citing commissioner Scott Rowland for allegedly striking New Zealand wing Waisake Naholo during Saturday’s second Test.
O’Brien denied he committed an offence during a three-man judicial hearing in Wellington yesterday and the complaint was subsequently dismissed.
In a statement, New Zealand Rugby said: “Having conducted a detailed review of all the evidence available, including all video footage and additional evidence from the player and submissions from his legal representative Max Duthie, the independent judicial committee comprising Adam Casselden SC (chair), David Croft and John Langford dismissed the citing complaint.”
The news is a huge boost for the Lions as they target victory in Auckland next weekend, which would give them a first Test series triumph against New Zealand since 1971.
Uncompromising Leinster forward O’Brien impressed in the second Test win, and he is set to be a key part of Lions head coach Warren Gatland’s plans at Eden Park.
Speaking ahead of the hearing, Lions assistant coach Graham Rowntree said: “Sean had an outstanding game carrying the ball for us on Saturday. He’s the barometer of our energy and aggression in the game; his ball pressure, his tackling, his carrying. He’s been outstanding.”
In a response issued by the Lions, O’Brien said: “Firstly, I hope Waisake is OK. I would like to thank the panel for carefully considering the case, and I am looking forward to rejoining the whole squad to prepare for the final Test.”
Gatland added: “We would 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.”
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