“Season Over?” – England Star Facing Lengthy Ban After Late Flashpoint

Sunday, 26 April 2026 at 21:09

byRugby Rucker

Exeter’s Gallagher Premiership play-off push took a major hit as Gloucester Rugby tore up the script with a dramatic 34-31 victory over Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm.

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But the real talking point came after the final play.

England flanker Ethan Roots now faces a potential lengthy suspension following a 20-minute red card for an off-the-ball incident that marred an already bruising contest. With tensions boiling over in the dying seconds, the clash could carry serious consequences for both player and club heading into the run-in.

Supporters were quick to react online, with many condemning the moment:

“Ethan Roots — elbow to the face of a man unable to protect himself on the floor.”

“I suspect a lengthy ban. Looked like the Gloucester player was receiving treatment after the final whistle.”

“Seems an incredibly stupid decision which will probably end his season…”

“Skull full of concrete. Brain dead there.”

If cited and banned, Roots could miss the remainder of the campaign — a hammer blow to Exeter’s already faltering top-four ambitions. The incident is expected to come under close scrutiny from disciplinary officials in the coming days.