Rugby Union: French stick up for Sella
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.(First Edition)
PHILIPPE SELLA did not deserve to be sent off in last Saturday's Test defeat at the hands of Canada, Pierre Berbizier, the French coach, said in Auckland yesterday when his team arrived for their tour of New Zealand.
Sella, the most capped player in rugby, misses the opening game of the tour against Northland on Thursday after being suspended for one match. He was ordered off for punching during France's 18-16 reversal in Nepean, Ontario.
Berbizier said Sella was only pushing away a Canadian player. 'We used a video to try and see exactly what happened,' Berbizier said. 'The video only shows Sella trying to push away an opponent who was trying to put his fingers in his eye.'
The French tour includes two Tests, in Christchurch on 26 June and Auckland on 3 July.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments