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Saracens face Maro Itoje ban threat after England lock cited for high tackle

Disciplinary hearing: Saracens star Maro Itoje has been cited for his tackle on Alfie Barbeary (Getty Images)
Disciplinary hearing: Saracens star Maro Itoje has been cited for his tackle on Alfie Barbeary (Getty Images)

Saracens could be facing more problems after Maro Itoje was called to a disciplinary hearing for a tackle on Bath No8 Alfie Barbeary.

The north London club are still dealing with the fallout from Billy Vunipola’s arrest on Sunday in Mallorca.

But now Sarries have to contend with England talisman Itoje facing a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday.

The influential lock collided with Barbeary in a tackle in the first half of Saracens’ 15-12 Premiership win at Bath on Friday night.

The 29-year-old must now face a charge of a dangerous tackle, which he and Saracens could contest, but will certainly as a minimum offer mitigation.

Itoje’s tackle on Barbeary appeared to have solid collision at chest level, though if any head contact can be established he could be facing a suspension.

Saracens travel to Bristol on May 11 before hosting Sale a week later, in their final two regular-season Premiership matches.

The defending champions sit second in the table and are battling to seal both a play-off place and a top-two finish to secure a home semi-final.