Springboks: Kurt-Lee Arendse suspended for four weeks after reckless aerial challenge

Colin Newboult

South Africa wing Kurt-Lee Arendse will miss their next four games in the Rugby Championship after being suspended following his red card against New Zealand.

Arendse was sent off by referee Angus Gardner late on in the encounter after he recklessly took Beauden Barrett out in the air.

It was an easy decision for the officials with the Springbok back three player not in a realistic position to compete for the ball.

Mid-range entry point

Foul Play Review committee chairman Michael Heron QC said: “Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Attie Heyns, the Foul Play Review Committee upheld the red card under Law 9.17.

“With respect to sanction the Foul Play Review Committee considered the act of foul play was reckless, highly dangerous and had a considerable impact on the victim player.

“The Committee accepted it was not deliberate and after considering all relevant factors decided the foul play merited a mid-range entry point of eight weeks.

“However, taking into account mitigating factors including the Player’s clean judicial record and his acceptance of guilt at the first available opportunity, the Foul Play Review Committee reduced the suspension to 4 weeks.

“The player is therefore suspended for 4 weeks, up to and including 17 September 2022.”

Marred an outstanding performance

On his second Test start, Arendse had produced a superb performance, scoring his first international try and defending resiliently throughout.

The wing also caused problems with ball in hand and was usually excellent in his kick-chase – up until that sickening incident.

Fortunately, Barrett escaped serious injury, despite landing awkwardly on his neck, and is in contention to feature in the rest of the Rugby Championship.

As for the Bok wing, he will miss four games, including the second All Blacks Test, the double-header with Australia and the first Argentina encounter.

Arendse will therefore be available for the final match of the tournament against Los Pumas in Durban, but his absence leaves South Africa slightly short in the back three, particularly with Cheslin Kolbe out with a broken jaw.

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