Unsportsmanlike conduct

Pascal Pape, the French rugby player, kneed James Heaslip in the back, causing damage to three vertebrae, during the Ireland/France match. Heaslip had to miss subsequent matches.

Mr. Pape appealed the ten-match suspension (a lenient penalty) handed down by the rugby committee.

In my opinion, Pape should have his suspension increased to 12 or 13 matches for having the temerity to appeal such a fair and tolerant punishment.

This would dissuade other offenders from making spurious appeals. There should also be a time limit of 24 hours within which they can make such an appeal.

Denis Sheahan

Leichhardt

Sydney

2040

Australia