Sale Sharks hooker Nathan Jibulu has been handed a six-week ban by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) for biting Harlequins prop Will Hobson during their Champions Cup clash at Twickenham Stoop on Saturday. The incident occurred in the 69th minute of the Sharks' 26-17 victory. Jibulu faced a potential 12-week suspension but had his sanction halved due to his guilty plea, expression of remorse, young age, and previous disciplinary record. A Sale statement acknowledged the unacceptable nature of the actions, stating both the club and player agree the behaviour has no place on the pitch or in society.

The club confirmed it will conduct its own internal disciplinary process while supporting Jibulu through the difficult period. The RFU's decision significantly impacts Sale's Champions Cup quarter-final preparations against Leinster, scheduled for the following Saturday.