Lood de Jager loses appeal against red card

South Africa lock Lood de Jager has lost his appeal against a four-match suspension received for a red-card offence during his team’s 32-17 victory over France on 8 November.

The independent appeal committee upheld the original decision, ruling that the tackle constituted foul play and merited a red card.

De Jager was sent off in the first half after his shoulder made contact with French fullback Thomas Ramos’ head region.

He argued that his opponent dropped in height at the last moment and that a red card was disproportionate, but the review panel rejected those arguments. The suspension will keep him out of the ongoing series for the Springboks.

"On review of the case that was presented to the disciplinary committee and having considered submissions advanced on behalf of the appellant, the appeal committee dismissed the appeal against the finding that he committed an act of foul play which merited a red card and also against the suspension," a statement said.

Earlier lock Franco Mostert had his red card reversed after he was sent off in the 11th minute during the encounter against Italy which the Boks went on to win 32-14.