Japan suspends rugby head coach Eddie Jones for four national team matches after finding he verbally abused match officials during an Under-23 tour of Australia in April. Multiple outlets report that the Japan Rugby Football Union imposes disciplinary measures that include both a suspension and a salary reduction or fine. The BBC and other sources say Jones is suspended as head coach for four games, meaning he will miss Japan’s Nations Championship opener against Italy in Tokyo on 4 July. The Guardian adds that Japan states the conduct involved “verbal abuse directed at local match officials” during the tour, and that Jones apologises for “some inappropriate remarks.” Several reports specify the suspension period as roughly six weeks. The Independent and Sky Sports note that Jones also misses matches while under the ban. The disciplinary action is framed by Japan’s union as a breach of ethics and disciplinary regulations. Across coverage, the key point is that Japan’s governing body takes action following allegations or findings related to abuse of match officials during the Under-23 tour, resulting in both time away from coaching duties and financial penalties.