Clean record saves Harry Hockings’ season at judiciary

Young Reds lock Harry Hockings escaped a season-ending ban for stomping on an opponent’s face thanks to his squeaky clean record.

Harry Hockings in action against the Sharks. Picture: AFP

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Young Reds lock Harry Hockings has been banned for three games and only his clean record has saved him from twice as long on the sidelines for a reckless boot to an opponent’s face.

SANZAAR judicial committee chairperson Nigel Hampton QC said Hockings’ good reputation, acceptance of responsibility and remorse had also factored into a reduced ban until May 24.

Hockings, 20, was sent off when he struggled free and a back heel clipped the face of Sunwolves No.8 Rahboni Warren-Vosayaco, who had been holding his leg at the back of a ruck in last Friday night’s match at Suncorp Stadium.

Harry Hockings in action against the Sharks. Picture: AFP

After Monday night’s hearing via video conference, Hampton said Hockings’ actions were “reckless although the contact made was found not to have been made with significant force”.

Most pressing, the Reds must find a new reserve lock, most likely Angus Blyth, for Friday night’s key clash against the Melbourne Rebels in Melbourne.

He has big boots to fill because Hockings has proved a valuable asset with his lineout work, kick-off receptions, sure defence and the charged down kick that set up the match-clinching try against the Sunwolves in Tokyo in March.

Utility back Isaac Lucas and flanker Fraser McReight are both likely to be included on the Reds bench after excellent showings for the Junior Wallabies in the Oceania Under-20s series on the Gold Coast.