Michael Cheika Suspended for Disrespecting Match Doctor

Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has been suspended for two weeks after being found guilty of disrespecting an independent match-day doctor during his first competitive match in charge against Exeter on September 21. The disciplinary panel upheld the charge under RFU rule 5.12, citing the importance of respecting decisions made by medical staff, particularly regarding player safety. Cheika's suspension includes a one-week ban that is deferred until the end of the season, meaning he will miss the upcoming match against Newcastle. The incident arose from a series of head injuries involving players Ollie Chessum and Solomone Kata, leading to questions about the handling of concussion protocols. Cheika expressed frustration over the decisions made during the match, particularly regarding Kata, who was later banned for four matches for a dangerous tackle. Leicester now has 14 days to appeal the decision.