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Major League Rugby has released a statement regarding the disqualification of the Austin Gilgronis and LA Giltinis from postseason participation. Austin were publicly sanctioned just ahead of the final week of the regular season, and LA were hit with the same penalty earlier this week.
The statement is short on details, most likely in accordance to legal advice. It does confirm that Austin were being investigated for breaches relating to the salary cap. Rumors have largely centered around irregularities being discovered while conducting due diligence in the sale of the Austin franchise.
A post by former Australia winger Drew Mitchell on social media suggested that LA were removed for breaking the owners participation agreement. Mitchell is close friends and business partners with Matt Giteau and Adam Ashley-Cooper of the Giltinis. Though stopping short of verifying Mitchell’s post, MLR’s statement indicates that actions taken by Adam Gilchrist, the owner of both franchises, were indeed the catalyst for LA’s sanction.
The statement from MLR in its entirety can be seen below:
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MLR previously announced the disqualification of the Austin Gilgronis and LA Giltinis from the MLR Championship Series. Austin’s disqualification is due to the team management’s failure to cooperate with an investigation conducted by the MLR league office concerning potential violations pertaining to player compensation. LA’s disqualification is due to conduct deemed detrimental to the league, which warranted an immediate disqualification from the 2022 MLR Championship Series.
“MLR is dedicated to protecting the integrity of rugby competition in North America and continuing in a league-wide model that will grow for decades. While these penalties are disappointing to the fan bases, MLR ownership remains committed to maintaining the success of this league. Round One of MLR’s Championship Series begins this weekend, and we look forward to a hard-fought and entertaining postseason.” – Commissioner George Killebrew
