News

Boks to appeal Botha ban

June 30 2009

South Africa have confirmed they will appeal against Bakkies Botha's two-week ban for dangerous charging.

Botha was suspended on Sunday for a challenge on Adam Jones which left the British & Irish Lions prop with a dislocated shoulder.

The Springboks were furious with the ban because they felt the lock's attempts at clearing out the ruck had been legal.

"We certainly don't see any wrong-doing in that challenge and if it wasn't for the injury which came from it, I don't think anything would have been said about it," said Assistant Coach Dick Muir.

"It is a major concern for us."

South Africa's lawyers received a copy of the initial hearing report on Tuesday and are hopeful the appeal can be scheduled before Saturday's third and final Test in Johannesburg.

However, it has been confirmed the Boks will not be appealing against Schalk Burger's eight-week suspension for making contact with the eye area of Luke Fitzgerald.