South Africa have been charged with misconduct after the Springboks wore armbands in the final Test against the Lions backing the banned Bakkies Botha. The South Africa second row was suspended for two weeks for dangerous charging at a ruck in the second Test. The armbands had Justice 4 on them, four being Botha’s international shirt number.
The International Rugby Board (IRB) said (quote) wearing the armbands demonstrates a clear disregard of the disciplinary process and the action could or has the potential to bring, the game into disrepute. (end quote)
The IRB has charged the South Africa Rugby Union (Saru) with misconduct in breach of the IRB regulations relating to the game, including breaches of the IRB Code of Conduct.”
The IRB has notified Saru that it intends to begin disciplinary proceedings and the matter will now be referred to the independent judicial panel chairman, who will appoint a judicial officer or committee to hear the charge.
No date has yet been given for any hearing.