The Waratahs have received a major boost with prop Angus Bell only issued a warning for his tackle on Sam Cane, free to play in Saturday's clash with the Crusaders.
Bell was red-carded in the third minute of the 51-27 defeat in Super Round for the lifting tackle on Cane, which saw the All Blacks skipper land on his head.
Further replays seemed to indicate Chiefs teammate Angus Ta'avao assisted Cane's body going over the horizontal and contributed to the dangerous nature.
After reviewing the incident, SANZAAR's Judiciary has confirmed 'the significant involvement of other players contributed to the incident', deeming it did not meet the red card threshold.
"Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Aaron Lloyd, the Foul Play Review Committee found the foul play did not breach the red card threshold," Foul Play Review Committee Chairman Michael Heron QC ruled.
"With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee deemed the act of foul play merited a Warning as it was close to, but did not breach the red card threshold.
"The Foul Play Review Committee deemed that the significant involvement of other players contributed to the incident which produced mitigating factors.
"The player is therefore free to resume playing.”
Bell's acquittal is a major boost for the Waratahs as they prepare for the Crusaders, forced into uncontested scrums after head knocks to both hookers Dave Porecki and Tom Horton.
Waratahs head coach Darren Coleman remained optimistic they would feature on Saturday given the eight-day turnaround, with the pair going through HIA protocols.
Meanwhile, Will Harrison is set for a significant stint on the sidelines after scans confirmed an ACL and MCL tear as well as damage to his patella.
“He’s obviously gutted,” Coleman told Fox Sports.
“But he’s got his head around the rehab and he’ll try to get back for the start of next year.”
