New Zealand Rugby Captain Sam Cane Receives Reduced Two-Match Ban for World Cup Final Red Card

Ban reduced due to Cane's "exemplary disciplinary record" and remorse; Third match suspension contingent on completion of World Rugby’s coaching intervention program.

New Zealand captain Sam Cane received a three-game suspension for a high tackle on Jesse Kriel during the Rugby World Cup final, which resulted in him becoming the first man to be red-carded in a final.
Cane's three-game ban was reduced to two matches due to his exemplary disciplinary record and remorse for his misconduct during the Rugby World Cup final against South Africa.
As part of his punishment, Cane is mandated to partake in World Rugby's coaching intervention program. If completed, his ban will be reduced by one game.
The tackles which led to Sam Cane being sent off were determined to have direct and forceful contact with the player’s shoulder to the head of the ball carrier, which he contested did not warrant a red card.
Sam Cane's suspension will affect his gameplay with his new Japanese team, Tokyo Sungoliath, causing him to miss matches against local rivals Brave Lupus Tokyo and Saitama Wild Knights.