Highlanders midfielder Sio Tomkinson has escaped further punishment for his hit on Brodie Retallick that resulted in a red card against the Chiefs last week.
A SANZAAR Judicial Committee ruled last night the referee was wrong to issue a red card for this incident, letting Tomkinson go free.
Despite the clearance, Tomkinson was left out of coach Aaron Mauger's squad yesterday for Friday night's contest against the Reds.
The Highlanders will have eight All Blacks in their lineup that include, Waisake Naholo, Aaron Smith, Ben Smith, Luke Whitelock, Matt Faddes, Shannon Frizell, Jackson Hemopo and Dillon Hunt.
The Highlanders take on the Reds at 6.35pm tomorrow.
On Saturday, the Sunwolves will face the Waratahs at 4.15pm, the biggest match of the weekend will see the Hurricanes take on defending champions the Crusaders at 6.35pm while the Brumbies will meet the Chiefs at 8.45pm.
On Sunday, the Sharks will face the Blues at 1.05am, Stormers will take on the Lions at 3.15am and Jaguares will take on the Bulls at 9.40am.
[Source: TVNZ/OtagoDailyTimes]
