Friday 28 April 2017 16:13, UK
Connacht's Bundee Aki has been handed a three-match ban for misconduct.
A misconduct complaint was made against the 27-year-old centre by the Guinness PRO12 disciplinary
officer after Connacht's league game against Leinster 12 days ago
It followed what the PRO12 described as "behaviour to and remarks directed toward" match referee Ian Davies during and immediately after Connacht's 37-24 defeat.
Aki admitted the misconduct charge when he faced a disciplinary panel via video link on Thursday.
He cannot play again until May 22, ruling him out of Connacht's PRO12 appointments with the Scarlets and Munster, plus a European Champions Cup qualification play-off fixture.
A statement released by the PRO12 read: "The complaint referred to Mr Aki's behaviour to and remarks directed toward referee Ian Davies during and immediately after the Round 20 fixture between Connacht Rugby and Leinster Rugby.
"Those actions were deemed to constitute misconduct under the tournament's disciplinary rules, in particular pursuant to the clauses set out in Section 3.
"Mr Aki admitted to the charge of misconduct, and the panel agreed upon a sanction of a three-match suspension."
In other Connacht news, the club have confirmed that loosehead prop Ronan Loughney will leave at the end of the season.
The 32-year-old has been with the province for 12 seasons as a professional and has was capped by Ireland in 2012.
Loughney told the Connacht website: "I have had an amazing time with Connacht and am grateful to have had the opportunity to represent my home province on so many occasions.
"The last 12 years have been a dream come true and I am incredibly proud of what the club has achieved.
"I would like to say a huge thank you to all the great teammates, coaches, management and staff that I've had the privilege of working with over the years.
"I would also like to thank our wonderful supporters, who have stood by us through thick and thin and have made the Sportsground the fortress it is today. Thanks for your incredible support down through the years.
"I am excited for the future and the next challenge."
