Former Tongan captain Viliami Vaki has been suspended for three weeks by an independent disciplinary panel after being found guilty of a dangerous tackle on Scotland's Chris Cusiter. The Perpignan flanker will now miss Sunday's last international at Lansdowne Road.

The incident occurred in the Pacific Islanders' 34-22 defeat at Murrayfield last Saturday with Cusiter subsequently requiring shoulder surgery that leaves him sidelined for four months.

"I strongly believe that Mr Vaki meant no harm to the player concerned and he is very sorry that this incident took place during an excellent international match," said Pacific Rugby CEO Sakopo Lolohea. "He is highly regarded in Tonga and the Pacific as a model player for young and up-and-coming international players."

Although found guilty of an offence that carries a six-week suspension, the committee, comprising Terry Vaux (Wales), Mike Rafter (England) and Antony Davies (England), took into account the player's previous exemplary disciplinary record and his expression of remorse at the serious injury caused to Cusiter in the tackle.

Josh Taumalolo has returned to English Premiership side Bristol after being released from his Pacific Islands duties. He joins Rupeni Caucaunibuca, Semo Sititi and Isoa Domolailai who have also returned to their respective clubs. The squad held another training session at Old Belvedere RFC yesterday and coach Pat Lam will announce a team this morning.

Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Richie McCaw held off teammate Dan Carter to be voted the International Rugby Players' player of the year. Paul O'Connell and Australian fullback Chris Latham were also contenders. New Zealand were voted team of the year.