Itoje cleared to play in Saracens' run-in

Maro ItojeImage source, Rex Features
Image caption,

Maro Itoje received a yellow card for a challenge with Alfie Barbeary in Saracens' Premiership match against Bath on Friday

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Saracens lock Maro Itoje will be available for the Premiership run-in after having his citing for a dangerous tackle against Bath dismissed at a tribunal.

The England star is free to play "with immediate effect" and will be available for selection away to Bristol Bears on Saturday, 11 May.

The 29-year-old British and Irish Lion was accused of making head contact with Bath's Alfie Barbeary during Saracens' 15-12 win at the Recreation Ground on Friday.

Itoje, who has 81 international caps, was given a yellow card for the challenge at the time.

"The panel heard and considered evidence from Maro Itoje and the Bath player and were able to examine the footage of the incident many times and from many different angles," panel chair, Philip Evans KC, said.

"In all of the circumstances, the panel did not conclude that a high degree of danger was created and therefore the on-field decision stands.

"The player is free to play with immediate effect."

Saracens are the reigning Premiership champions and are currently second in the table with two games of the regular season remaining.