Lassissi ban overturned
January 26, 2002

Castres forward Ismaelia Lassissi's 12-month ban for biting has been overturned following an appeal hearing in Dublin.

Lassissi, an Ivory Coast international flanker, was cited by Munster for biting their Ireland prop Peter Clohessy during the European Cup Pool match between the clubs in France on January 12, which Castres won 21-13.
The disciplinary committee of tournament organisers European Rugby Cup (ERC) handed out a year-long ban after Castres had withdrawn their counter-protest against Clohessy for making an alleged racist remark to Lassissi.

Following the appeal, the ERC released a statment, clearing Lassissi of all charges:

"The ERC appeals committee, chairman Robert Horner (England), Bob Taylor(England) and John Owen (Wales) upheld the appeal following formal evidence at the hearing.

"Mr Lassissi can resume playing with immediate effect."

The 32-year-old back-row forward has been included in Castres's 22 for their all-French European Cup quarter-final at home to Montferrand on Saturday.

Castres sporting director Jacques Cauquil was delighted when the news was announced:

"This is great news for the club and also for the man who was cleared of accusations which were without foundation.

"I was told by ERC of the decision late on Thursday night. We were all extremely confident. The good faith of our player, who always said he was innocent, has been recognised."

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