Promising Hurricanes openside flanker Ardie Savea is in danger of missing Saturday’s opening match of their Super Rugby campaign after being cited for a dangerous tackle.
The 19-year-old Savea will face a judicial hearing for an alleged lifting tackle on Chiefs replacement halfback Augustine Pulu late in the Hurricanes’ 25-21 loss in Mangatainoka on Saturday.
Judicial Officer Nigel Hampton QC will convene a hearing via video-conference on Tuesday.
If the charge is proved and Savea cops a ban, he will miss the home date with the Blues at Westpac Stadium.
The charge carries a recommended ban of four weeks for a lower-end offence with a maximum sanction of 12 months.