Cheika cleared by disciplinary committee

Thu, Nov 23, 2017, 6:48 PM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
Michael Cheika has been cleared. Photo: Getty Images
Michael Cheika has been cleared. Photo: Getty Images

Wallabies coach Michael Cheika will not face any disciplinary sanction over his conduct in last weekend's Test, cleared by the Autumn International Disciplinary Committee.

The committee said Cheika and Rugby Australia had 'cooperated' with their process in recent days and it accepted his apology for comments that appeared to be picked up by the coaching box cameras in Australia's 30-6 loss to England.

In a statement released on Friday morning (AEDT), the committee said it would not pursue any further action against the Wallabies mentor but urged Cheika to 'moderate his conduct and language' in the future, and be more conscious of the possibility of his words being broadcast on television. 

"Mr Cheika and the ARU cooperated with the investigation, which has now been completed," the statement read.

"In light of Mr Cheika's explanations of his conduct, his clear understanding of the need to protect and promote the interests of the sport, and his open apology for any offence caused, the Disciplinary Officer for the Autumn Internationals (in consultation with World Rugby) has decided not to pursue any disciplinary proceedings against Mr Cheika.

"The Disciplinary Officer has, however, urged Mr Cheika to be aware of the risks during matches when he knows he will be being filmed and potentially broadcast, and where possible to moderate his conduct and language accordingly.

"Mr Cheika has accepted the position."

High-profile sporting figures, including former England coach Clive Woodward, came out in support of Cheika during the week, after news of the investigation emerged.

Australia takes on Scotland in their last match of the Spring Tour on Saturday November 25, kicking off at 2:30pm local, Sunday 1:30am AEDT, LIVE on beIN Sports and SBS Viceland. 

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