DUBAI // Abu Dhabi Saracens are unlikely to face any financial penalty, having been forced to forfeit their Champions League fixture against Kandy on Tuesday night on medical grounds.
The match did not go ahead, despite both teams and officials being ready to play, on account of the fact there was no ambulance present on site.
As the host club, Saracens had been obliged by the conditions of the tournament to make the correct medical arrangements.
Having not done so, they forfeited the result, and the Sri Lankan champions were granted a 20-0, bonus-point victory.
The Saracens coaching staff had feared their club may be fined by Asia Rugby, the organisers of the new competition.
However, Ghaith Jalajel, the rugby development consultant for Asia Rugby, West, and tournament director, said he will not be recommending any further sanctions.
“There was no chance we could reschedule because of the time between then and the final round of matches [tomorrow],” Jalajel said.
“Saracens are still in the tournament, and will still play their final match.
“Nothing has been finalised [in terms of a fine]. Personally, I am happy for them just to concede the points, as I feel it was an honest mistake.
“As a tournament director I will not put any recommendations forward, but it is up to Asia Rugby to decide whether it was bad enough to warrant that. I don’t think Kandy will want to put a complaint in, either.”
With an unexpected bonus-point win secured, Kandy now have the chance to play for the title at The Sevens, Dubai tomorrow.
The form guide would suggest Doha, their opponents, are well-placed to become the first Champions League winners, though. They thrashed Olymp, who had drawn with Kandy in the opening round of matches, 59-12 on Tuesday night.
pradley@thenational.ae
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