Melbourne Rebels winger Cooper Vuna has been cited over a dangerous tackle on his Highlanders opposite Kade Poki, following their Super Rugby match on Friday night in Invercargill.

Vuna, who now faces possible suspension, lifted Poki in the tackle and dropped him to the ground – Poki’s shoulder hitting the turf first – in the 56th minute of the match, which the Highlanders won 43-12.

Vuna was penalised but did not receive a card from referee Marius Jonker.

However, after reviewing footage of the tackle the citing commissioner deemed it was worthy of a red card and Vuna being sent off.

The case will be heard by SANZAR duty judicial officer Mike Heron.