Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.
Sale Sharks and England forward Jonny Hill has received a 10-week ban, four of which are suspended, after accepting a charge that he physically abused a spectator.
Hill, who has not played for Sale this season, will be available from December 7.
The RFU said that Hill accepted the charge.
In a statement released by the RFU, panel chair Philip Evans KC said: “The panel concluded the appropriate starting point was a 20-week suspension from playing.
“They also found the circumstances of this case to be exceptional and as a consequence, and because of the substantial mitigation available to Jonny Hill, that starting point was reduced to 10 weeks, four of which will be suspended until the conclusion of the 25/26 season.
“In addition, he is required to give a presentation to young players at the club which is to be recorded and provided to the RFU.”
A 28-year-old supporter had claimed he was grabbed around the throat and left with a cut above his eye after an altercation with Hill at the end of the play-off clash.
The fan, who did not wish to be identified, told reporters he was grabbed around the throat and left with a cut above his eye after his sunglasses were broken.
Hill suffered a season-ending ruptured patella tendon in January, but he is now understood to be fully fit again.
Commenting on the judgement, Sale said: “Both the club and player accept the ruling made by the RFU disciplinary panel, and we now look forward to getting Jonny back on the pitch in a Sale Sharks shirt as soon as possible.”
