Lengthy ban for red-carded André Esterhuizen
André Esterhuizen has been excluded from South Africa’s squad for the start of the 2024 Rugby Championship, following a four-match ban.
Springbok centre André Esterhuizen has been hit with a hefty suspension after being red-carded for a controversial tackle in the historic Test against Portugal.
The hulking midfielder has been handed a four-match suspension following his dismissal for a hit on Jose Lima in Saturday’s Test in Bloemfontein.
Initially issued a yellow card for head-on-head contact in the third minute at the Free State Stadium, Esterhuizen’s sanction was upgraded to red after a TMO bunker review.
Chaired by England’s Matthew Weaver, with Wales’ Jamie Corsi and Romania’s Valeriu Toma, a World Rugby disciplinary committee ruled that the 30-year-old’s offence warranted a mid-range entry point, meriting a six-match ban.
However, considering mitigating factors, the suspension was reduced to four matches. This ban could be further reduced to three matches if Esterhuizen completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.
The Bok world champion accepted the foul play charge and its severity and has 48 hours to appeal the decision. Consequently, he has been excluded from South Africa’s squad for the start of the 2024 Rugby Championship.
As it stands, Esterhuizen, who returned to the Sharks from English club Harlequins this season, is unavailable for the Durbanites’ clashes in the Currie Cup against the Lions (Saturday), Pumas (August 3), Griquas (August 11) and Cheetahs (August 17).
This article first appeared in SA Rugby Magazine.
