Three-week ban for Deysel

Editor

Sharks flanker Jean Deysel has been suspended for three weeks after pleading guilty to stamping on Jordan Taufua's head.

Sharks flanker Jean Deysel has been suspended for three weeks after pleading guilty to stamping on the head of Crusaders loose forward Jordan Taufua.

The 29-year-old was sent off in the 16th minute of last weekend's Super Rugby clash in Christchurch following intervention from the television official after the incident had been missed by referee Rohan Hoffman.

SANZAR confirmed in a statement that Deysel will be banned for all rugby until June 7.

“Stamping is a serious offence,” said the judicial officer.

“It is an offence that cannot be tolerated in the game because not only is it totally against the spirit of the game, but it carries an inherent potential danger of serious injury to players, especially when contact is made in the head/face area.”

The period of suspension was reduced to three weeks as a result of “compelling mitigating factors.”

“The player apologised to his opponent after the match who accepted the apology,” read the judicial hearing's ruling.

“Deysel is a senior player with an exceptionally good record over a long career who acts as a leader and performs a mentoring role in the team. He pleaded guilty and showed genuine remorse for his actions.

“Having considered the player's upcoming schedule of matches as required by IRB Regulation 17, I am satisfied that the player was scheduled to play in the KZN Club Rugby competition during the June break for Super Rugby. This means Deysel will miss the Sharks' two upcoming fixtures, along with a match for his club side on 6 June.”

The Sharks face the Blues at North Harbour Stadium on Friday before returning to South Africa to face the Stormers on June 1.