Springbok flank forward Schalk Burger was cited for a dangerous tackle in the Currie Cup match between Western Province and the Pumas at Newlands on Saturday evening but he was cleared of foul play.
The citing was for a heavy tackle on the Pumas’ replacement lock, JP Mostert late in the second half. The thudding tackle elicited loud cheers from the crowd but earned Burger a citing.
It also elicited a complaint from the Puma coach Jimmy Stonehouse who used it as an example of how referees favour the strong over the weak – that Burger had not used his arms in the tackle when his player was penalised for a high tackle.
The hearing was held on Monday afternoon before Adv. André Oosthuizen SC and Burger was cleared to play for Western Province in the semifinal against the Golden Lions in Johannesburg on Saturday. A suspension would have meant missing the semifinal.
The citing commissioner for this match was Andy Prior of Durban.
Prior also cited JW Jonker of the Pumas for a high tackle on WP and Springbok wing Bryan Habana. The hearing is to take place on Tuesday.