Blues' Luke Braid suspended

Auckland - Blues flank Luke Braid has been suspended for three weeks for striking an opponent in the Blues' Super Rugby loss to the Stormers last Friday at Newlands in Cape Town.

SANZAR said on Tuesday that Braid pleaded guilty to the charge. He will miss matches against the Hurricanes and Melbourne Rebels. Braid's suspension also takes in a bye for the Blues.

A judicial officer said Braid struck a Stormers player twice on the back of the neck and head in the 62nd minute of the Blues' 27-17 loss.

He will be available again for Blues' Week 8 game at home to the Sharks on April 13.