ETZEBETH DECISION STILL HANGING

Eben Etzebeth’s disciplinary saga has turned into one of the most talked-about rugby stories of the week, after his red card in South Africa’s huge win over Wales sparked a formal hearing and an unexpected delay in the verdict.

The Springbok lock was sent off late in the Test for making contact with the eye area of Welsh flank Alex Mann, an incident that immediately raised concerns about intent and seriousness.

Etzebeth and his representatives argued that the moment was exaggerated by slow-motion footage and that there was no deliberate attempt to injure. They maintained that he was clearing a player legally and that contact was accidental.

Those close to the Springbok camp have also hinted that Mann may have held on at the breakdown, prompting Etzebeth’s reaction.

The disciplinary session reportedly stretched far longer than expected, with the independent panel unable to reach full agreement on both the level of offence and the appropriate sanction. That stalemate has now pushed the final ruling into the coming days, leaving South Africa in an uncomfortable holding pattern.

A lengthy suspension remains possible, though insiders believe Etzebeth’s strong disciplinary history could soften any outcome. Still, the waiting period has fuelled frustration, especially since upcoming fixtures could be affected.

For now, the rugby world watches closely. Etzebeth remains sidelined until clarity arrives, while supporters hope the decision reflects both context and fairness.

Image credit: South African Daily