The Springboks' clash with France in Paris saw a controversial moment just before halftime: Lood de Jager receiving a red card. The incident involved contact between de Jager's shoulder and the head of France's Thomas Ramos, who was already low to the ground after being tackled.
Why the Red Card?
Referee Angus Gardner, after consulting with the Television Match Official (TMO) Ian Tempest, determined that de Jager's arm being tucked in made the contact illegal and intentional. This meant no mitigation was possible, resulting in a permanent red card, leaving the Springboks a man down.
What do the Laws Say?
World Rugby's Law 9 covers foul play and head contact. Law 9.11 states that players must not act recklessly or dangerously, including leading with the elbow or forearm. Law 9.13 prohibits dangerous tackles, specifically tackling an opponent above the shoulder line, even if the tackle starts below it.
World Rugby emphasizes player welfare, stating that there's zero tolerance for foul play, especially where head contact occurs. The focus is on the actions, not necessarily the injury itself.
Controversy and Debate
The red card sparked immediate debate. Was it the correct call? Many fans and pundits have weighed in, questioning whether the contact warranted such a severe penalty. The fact that Ramos was already falling after a tackle adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
The incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of head contact in rugby and the pressure on referees to make split-second decisions with significant consequences for the game. It also raises questions about consistency in applying the laws and the role of the TMO.
This isn't the first time TMO Ian Tempest has been involved in a controversial call. Previously, he failed to spot a biting incident at the recent Women's World Cup, raising questions about his decision making.