Fiji born Reds winger, Filipo Daugunu has been hit with a five-week suspension for a tip tackle in last week's trial against the Rebels.
The Reds will be without winger until round five of the Super Rugby season.
The flying winger, who scored five tries in the Reds' drubbing of the Rebels last week, will miss the team's opening round and crucial trip to South Africa and Argentina, before becoming available for their round five clash against the Sharks.
It could have been worse for Queensland though, with Daugunu receiving a 50 percent reduction in the penalty due to his early guilty plea and remorse.
He was judged to have committed a mid-range breach, an offence which carries a 10-week suspension. But he received the full reduction available under World Rugby regulations, giving some relief to the Reds.
Daugunu signed a four-year contract extension with the Reds late last year, with a top-up component from Rugby Australia after he met residency conditions that would allow him to qualify for the Wallabies.
While his finishing ability is unquestioned, Daugunu's defensive decisions and tackling style is likely to come under scrutiny if he is to return and lock down a permanent wing spot.
The Reds will face the Brumbies at 8.15pm next Friday in their opening match of the Super Rugby.
[Source: www.rugby.com.au]
