Boks braced for ‘Justice’ backlash

SOUTH AFRICA expect a backlash from the International Rugby Board (IRB) following a decision by Springbok players and management to wear white armbands with the word “Justice” printed on them during the third Test with the British and Irish Lions here in Johannesburg on Saturday.

The armbands were worn as a protest against the decision to ban second-row icon Bakkies Botha for two weeks for what was deemed a dangerous charge into a ruck during the decisive second Test in Pretoria.

An appeal was dismissed and the matter incensed the Springboks who showed their support for Botha with the armbands.

Springbok captain John Smit admitted the IRB might well censure the players for their action but said he was prepared for that. “We took this action with our eyes open because we felt it had to be highlighted,” he said.

“The Springbok players all feel for Bakkies as he missed this memorable final Test against the Lions. As a sign of solidarity the Springbok players decided to wear white arm bands during the Test match.”