Bristol Bears centre Sam Bedlow has been suspended for three weeks to hand director of rugby Pat Lam further selection problems with the injuries and international call-ups mounting.
Bedlow was yellow carded in the third minute of Bristol's 34-34 draw away at London Irish on Sunday for a tip tackle on centre Theo Brophy-Clews contrary to World Rugby Law 9.18.
At the time referee Karl Dickson and his officiating team deemed it a yellow card offence after a lengthy TMO check as the Exiles centre landed on the top of back but citing officer Nick Wood called the Bristol man before an RFU independent disciplinary hearing deeming the incident a red card offence.
The centre accepted the charges and was given a three-week suspension by the independent disciplinary panel comprising Jeremy Summers (chair), with Chris Skaife and Jamie Corsi. He is free to play again on March 16th, 2021.
In a nice touch, Bedlow took to social media on Tuesday night to apologise for his actions.
He Tweeted: "Wanted to say how sorry I am about what happened on Sunday to my team, our fans and most importantly Theo Brophy Clews. I apologise & did not tackle with any malice or intent to cause harm - it’s not what Bristol Bears or I stand for. All the best for the rest of the season."
With centres Siale Piutau and Semi Radradra both sidelined with shoulder and knee injuries respectively, director of rugby Pat Lam's options in the 12 and 13 shirt are now narrowing.
Piers O'Conor can ably wear either jersey and Samoan international Alapati Leiua's favourite position is outside centre although he has main been deployed on the wing for the Bears.
Young Charlie Powell, 21, could also get a shot having stepped up from the integrated academy to the senior squad in the summer.
The only good news for Bristol is both number eight Jasper Wiese and flanker Hanro Liebenberg of Leicester Tigers will not be available this weekend to face the Bears having both also received suspensions following their red cards against Wasps on Saturday.
Bedlow will be unavailable for:
- Leicester Tigers (H) - Feb, 27
- Worcester Warriors (A) - March, 6
- Wasps Rugby (H) - March, 12
Bedlow's first opportunity to play again will be away against Northampton Saints on March 21.
