Overview
- An independent URC disciplinary committee found Aki committed verbal abuse and disrespect of match officials during and after Connacht’s loss to Leinster.
- A six-week suspension was issued with two weeks suspended for two years, leaving an effective four-game ban.
- He will miss Connacht’s trip to Zebre Parma on January 31 and Ireland’s games against France on February 5, Italy on February 14, and England on February 21.
- Ulster’s uncapped Jude Postlethwaite has been called into Ireland’s squad after Aki was omitted from the Portugal camp, with the IRFU confirming an internal investigation.
- The committee noted Aki’s regret but cited his prior record and absence of a plea in declining mitigation; he retains the right to appeal and could return for Ireland’s final rounds against Wales and Scotland.