Black Ferns prop Tanya Kalounivale has escaped any further punishment and is free to play against Canada this weekend.
Kalounivale was sent off in last weekend’s opening Pacific Four Series game against the United States in Sacramento for a dangerous cleanout.
She was yellow-carded for head contact and had her punishment upgraded to red, with the TMO declaring it had ‘‘a high degree of danger’’.
However, an independent disciplinary committee determined a red card was not warranted.
The incident was automatically reviewed by an independent foul play committee, which decided to refer the matter for a full disciplinary hearing.
‘‘Having reviewed the available footage and additional angles, the committee determined that the action did not warrant a red card,’’ World Rugby said in a statement.
‘‘The committee found that there was not a high degree of danger in the action and therefore, under the head contact process, a red card should not have been issued.
‘‘The player is therefore free to play.’’
New Zealand, who beat the US 48-15, take on world No2 Canada in Kansas City this weekend.
It is the first time the two sides have met since Canada beat the Black Ferns in the World Cup semifinal last year.
Black Ferns selectors have named an unchanged 23 for the game, which kicks off tomorrow at 10.15am (NZ time).
Otago halfback Maia Joseph earns another start alongside experienced co-captain Ruahei Demant, while Mererangi Paul stays at wing after scoring a hat-trick against the Americans.
Maddison Robinson, Mia Anderson, Tara Turner and Justine McGregor will all get another chance from the bench after earning their first test caps last weekend.
“Our focus is on us and the upcoming opportunity to refine our rugby identity,’’ Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen said.
‘‘We know Canada are a physical and accurate side, and we’re looking forward to matching the intensity to put on a consistent, disciplined performance we can be proud of.
“Both teams are coming off the back of growing performances, so fans in the USA and back home can expect an entertaining contest.”
— RNZ/Allied Media
