Is Maya banned for 6 years?
It’s time that common sense prevail and rugby should continue on as norm. The match officials have made their message clear by staying away from controlling the Naitasiri Under-19 game against Yasawa at Nadovu Park, Lautoka, yesterday.
This was a sign of protest after Naitasiri U19 lock Keresi Maya punched referee Peni Talemaivavalagi in Nausori last Saturday.
Maya and his legal representatives appeared before the Disciplinary Committee to present their case and so were the other parties involved.
A judgement had been issued to all parties late Friday evening.
It is believed that Maya has been handed a six-year ban from all forms of rugby (Fiji and abroad).
The sanction is from September 4, 2020 and concludes on September 14, 2027.
It’s tough for the Naselesele native from Taveuni but he should be grateful that he was not slapped with a life ban.
For him life has to move on.
What has happened is an important lesson that every rugby player in the country should take heed of.
Hitting the referee and any match official, is a big no-no.
We cannot tolerate any form of violence against match officials. There is a code of conduct based on respect for everyone involved in this great game
Do not let frustrations lead to violence. There is a big difference between being physical and being violent.
Rugby is to be enjoyed, we should all be able to meet after the game and shake hands. That’s should be our focus from now on and let’s enjoy our rugby.