LOOD DE JAGER RULED OUT FOR REST OF SPRINGBOKS’ TOUR AFTER SUSPENSION

Springbok lock Lood de Jager won’t feature again on South Africa’s end-of-year tour after being handed a four-match suspension following his red card against France in Paris last weekend.

The 2019 Rugby World Cup winner was shown a straight red in the 38th minute of the Boks’ bruising clash with Les Bleus at the Stade de France, after an incident of foul play was reviewed by the match officials.

An independent disciplinary committee confirmed on Tuesday that the red card would stand. After reviewing the offence, the panel decided it warranted a mid-range sanction of six weeks, which was reduced to four after taking mitigating factors into account.

De Jager could still have his suspension trimmed to three matches if he completes World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme, which would allow him to return in time for the Panasonic Wild Knights’ showdown with defending League One champions Toshiba Brave Lupus on 14 December.

If the full suspension stands, he’ll miss the Springbok fixtures against Italy, Ireland, and Wales, as well as his club fixture against the Wild Knights.

Despite losing de Jager early in the match, the Springboks didn’t let his absence derail their performance in Paris. With their trademark depth in the forwards, they’ll back themselves to finish the tour strongly in his absence.

Image credit: Planet Rugby