Overview
- Franco Mostert was shown a straight red in the 11th minute against Italy for a dangerous tackle on Paolo Garbisi, marking a second consecutive permanent red for a Springbok lock after Lood de Jager’s sending off versus France.
- Nick Mallett called on World Rugby to revisit the rule that lets referees issue a permanent red without a bunker review.
- Mallett argued the bunker offers a more objective assessment away from crowd pressure and said the footage suggests wrap intent with no clear direct head contact, which he believes a hearing could test.
- A World Rugby explainer video by referee Angus Gardner frames a permanent red as an act of thuggery or dirty play, prompting questions about consistency given recent decisions.
- Opinion pieces highlighted uneven use of red cards and bunker referrals across the weekend, and a disciplinary process for Mostert is expected to address contact and potential mitigation.