CORNISH Pirates joint head coach Alan Paver has been banned for the rest of the regular Champ Rugby season after his sending off in Saturday’s home defeat to Worcester Warriors.

The former prop came on to the field during a melee in a heated clash at the Mennaye Field in Penzance, and was charged with slapping visiting back Jake Garside, shortly after tempers flared in the home dugout as Warriors fly-half Will Reed had gone to retrieve the ball.

Paver was initially given a 12-game ban by the RFU, but due to his exemplary disciplinary record and admission of his offence, it was reduced by half.

It means he will miss the final five games of the campaign as the Pirates - who were beaten 29-7 by the Warriors - look to finish in the top six and reach the end of season play-offs. One further game will either be the first match in the end of season play-offs, or the first friendly of next season.

The 48-year-old will still be able to be involved in team matters during the week, but is not allowed any contact with the squad up to three hours before kick-off or two hours after. He is allowed to watch as a spectator.

In his statement, Paver expressed his remorse to the panel, saying: “After the match, having taken time to calm down, I apologised to a Worcester coach and the referee [Jamie Parr]. I also attempted to apologise to Worcester’s head coach [Matt Everard], but this was not welcomed. As such, I took the decision to not try and interact any further with Worcester Warriors (particularly the two players involved) and kept myself to myself.”

In their findings, the RFU committee agreed that although his actions were at the top end of the scale for a long ban, his previous good nature and recognition of his actions, meant he was handed just the six games.

It means Paver will be absent from league games against Bedford Blues (April 4), Chinnor (April 11), Ealing Trailfinders (April 18) and Coventry (May 2) before their final day trip to Hartpury on Saturday, May 9.

In a statement, the Pirates added: “The club and Alan accepted the ruling of the RFU and is grateful for its swift and diligent decision-making. We will be making no further comment on the matter.”