Springboks Seek Answers as Appeals Loom Over Lood de Jager and Franco Mostert Red Cards

• The Springboks are awaiting the outcome of appeals for two controversial red cards received on their European tour
• Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has voiced concerns over fairness and consistency in how the team has been penalised
• The dismissals came during consecutive matches, despite South Africa securing victories while playing a man down

The Springboks coaching staff have confirmed they are awaiting the results of appeals over two red cards issued during consecutive weekends of the Outgoing Autumn Series.

The dismissals, handed to Lood de Jager and Franco Mostert, have raised concerns within the Bok camp, which believes both were unjust.

Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick expressed frustration over the decisions, emphasising that the team is not only seeking an overturn of the sanctions but also clear explanations. Despite remarkable victories over France and Italy while playing a man down, the consecutive red cards have placed added pressure on the coaching staff.

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Stick highlighted his confusion over Mostert’s dismissal, noting that the player had adhered to the rules and that any contact with the head appeared incidental rather than deliberate.

Concerns over fairness and consistency

Stick also criticised the broader handling of red cards, pointing out that several players, including Makazole Mapimpi and young Jan Hendrik Wessels, have missed key milestones due to suspensions.

He described de Jager’s red card as disproportionate, especially given his recent performances against Fiji and France, and noted that similar or even worse incidents in other matches, such as Ireland versus Australia, did not attract comparable penalties.

The assistant coach underlined that the Springboks have consistently sought to play in good spirit, respecting both the laws of the game and their opponents. He questioned whether the team is being treated fairly, adding that clarity is needed regarding how the tackles in question resulted in permanent red cards.

Rassie Erasmus slams ‘unequal’ head-strike calls

Head coach Rassie Erasmus reported that the team had to adjust quickly when Ben-Jason Dixon made his first Test appearance of the year, alongside Ruan Nortje covering lineout duties after Mostert’s dismissal.

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Erasmus pointed out that the team’s pride in executing low tackles to avoid head contact had not prevented red cards, leaving players unsure of how to avoid such punishments.

He explained that while the 20-minute red card trial was intended to allow for review, in both cases, permanent red cards were issued, creating significant disruptions. Erasmus also expressed concern for players like Kolisi and Dixon, who bore the brunt of disciplinary decisions, adding that the team’s resilience allowed them to overcome these setbacks despite playing with fewer men.

The Boks now await the outcome of their appeals over de Jager’s red card against France and Mostert’s dismissal against Italy.

Siya Kolisi ranked among the world’s highest-paid rugby players

Briefly News previously reported that Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has been named among the world’s top 10 highest-paid rugby players for the 2024/25 season.

The report by DashTickets.nz highlights the soaring international demand for South African rugby talent, particularly in Japan’s lucrative league.

Source: Briefly News