All Blacks coach Ian Foster says the team is disappointed with the three-week ban handed to prop Ofa Tuungafasi, but they respect SANZAAR's decision.
On Wednesday, Tuungafasi was handed a ban which will see him miss the remainder of the international season after the front-rower was red-carded for a high tackle on Tom Wright in the 23rd minute of New Zealand's 24-22 defeat to Australia in Brisbane.
The SANZAAR judiciary found Tuungafasi guilty of contravening law 9.13: A player must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously.
Due to Tuungafasi's clean record, he was entitled to a 50 percent reduction as similar tackles usually carry a six-week ban from World Rugby.
"It is what it is," says Foster. "You go into the process, and we felt it was worthy of a conversation, and we were listened to and presented our case and fully respect the decision.
"While we're really disappointed for Ofa, we're fully aware of the process, of the high tackle framework, and [we] move on."
On Tuesday, Wallabies flanker Lachy Swinton was suspended four games for a similar tackle on All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock.
Despite losing Tu'ungafasi for the rest of the season, Nepo Laulala and Joe Moody are expected to be available for the All Blacks' final two tests of the season.
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