Keresi Maya banned for 6 years

Fiji Rugby Union confirms Naitasiri Under-19 player, Keresi Maya has been banned from all levels of rugby in Fiji for 6 years.

Maya punched referee, Peni Talemaivavalagi during an U19 match between Naitasiri and Tailevu on 29th August this year.

FRU’s Chief Executive, John O’Connor says during the hearing, Fiji Rugby Union and the Fiji Rugby Referees Association had made submissions for a life ban on the player since it was a cowardly act which resulted in the match official sustaining injuries and a broken nose.

He says while they respect the process and the decision made by the Judicial Officer, they are seriously considering to appeal the decision.

This sanction comes after a disciplinary hearing was conducted by an independent Judicial Officer.

Tournament Director and FRU’s Operations Manager, Sale Sorovaki says all players owed a duty of care to ensure the safety of other players, match officials and any other administrative personnel and Maya’s act of Foul Play needed to be sanctioned appropriately.

The FRU CEO further says they have taken steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the referees and match officials during FRU organised matches.

O’Connor says going forward, any player in the field who verbally abuses the match official will be given a warning and should the player repeat the offence, he or she will be yellow carded. He says any technical official or managers on the bench or in the technical area who abuses the match officials will be warned and if they repeat the offence, will be removed from the field.

On reports that Maya will turn to Rugby League, the Fiji Rugby Union CEO says they have a good working relation with the Fiji National Rugby League and would also communicate the disciplinary decision to them and to the Fiji Sports Commission.