Argentina Star Tomás Albornoz Banned Ahead of Springboks Clash for Intimidating Referee
- Argentina will be without one of their key playmakers when they face the Springboks after a World Rugby disciplinary ruling
- Tomás Albornoz's suspension follows a heated confrontation with the referee after a controversial defeat to England
- The decision comes just days before South Africa and Argentina meet in the Rugby Championship
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Getty Images
Argentina's preparations for their Rugby Championship showdown with South Africa have suffered a setback after fly-half Tomás Albornoz received a four-match suspension for intimidating a match official.
The sanction means the 28-year-old will miss Saturday's Test against the Springboks on 8 August. He will also miss two matches against Australia and a Top 14 fixture for Toulon.
World Rugby confirmed the punishment on Wednesday, 5 August, following disciplinary proceedings linked to Argentina's 31-24 defeat to England on 18 July.
World Rugby explains Tomás Albornoz ban
According to World Rugby, Albornoz admitted misconduct arising from his interactions with referee Angus Gardner after the final whistle.
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
World Rugby said:
"Tomás Albornoz has been suspended for four matches after admitting misconduct arising from interactions with match officials following Argentina's Nations Championship match against England on 18 July."
It added:
"The committee accepted that contact with referee Angus Gardner, although limited in nature, occurred while disputing a match official's decision and formed part of that overall course of intimidatory conduct."
England controversy led to disciplinary action
The confrontation came after Argentina were denied a late try that could have given Albornoz an opportunity to level the scores. The decision followed a review by the television match official, leaving the Pumas frustrated.
The disciplinary panel reduced the suspension from a potential six matches to four after considering Albornoz's admission of misconduct, his commitment to issue public and private written apologies, and his clean disciplinary record.
Springboks receive boost before Rugby Championship Test
South Africa will now face an Argentina side without one of its first-choice playmakers as the Rugby Championship resumes on Saturday. The absence of Albornoz could force the Pumas into changes at fly-half for one of their biggest fixtures of the campaign.
Source: Getty Images
Rassie Erasmus refuses to be drawn into Argentina controversy
Briefly News also reported that Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus refused to comment on the controversy surrounding Argentina's disciplinary issues ahead of Saturday's Rugby Championship clash in Buenos Aires.
Instead, Erasmus insisted South Africa's focus remains firmly on the challenge on the field.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Source: Briefly News
