Eben Etzebeth in the incident against Wales. Alamy Stock Photo

Eben Etzebeth banned for 12 games and reportedly cut by Sharks

Incident against Wales player Alex Mann led to consequences.

SOUTH AFRICA’S EBEN Etzebeth has been handed a 12-match suspension after his alleged eye-gouge on Wales player Alex Mann on 22 November, and has reportedly been de-registered from his club, Sharks.

Etzebeth made the shocking infraction in the closing stages of the Springbok’s 73-0 win over Wales and he appeared before an independent disciplinary committee via video link having received a red card for an act of foul play.

The independent Disciplinary Committee was chaired by Christopher Quinlan KC, joined by former international players Leon Lloyd (England) and Becky Essex (England).

After considering Etzebeth’s testimony alongside other evidence and reviewing the footage, the disciplinary committee determined that contact with the eye was intentional and a mid-range entry point of eighteen weeks/matches was appropriate.

Some mitigating factors, including Etzebeth’s previous record, were applied to reduce the ban by six weeks to twelve weeks/matches.

Etzebeth will therefore not be eligible for 12 matches, up to and including the Sharks’ game against Cardiff Rugby in the United Rugby Championship on 27 March.

Media reports have since claimed that Etzebeth has been de-registered from the club.

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