Springboks try should have been ruled out after 'illegal' action
Former referee Nigel Owens has criticized a specific play in a rugby match between South Africa and Scotland, arguing it should have been penalized as illegal. He contends that carrying a player in the air prevents the defense from engaging, creating an unfair advantage.
Why it matters
The analysis highlights the importance of officiating consistency and player safety in professional rugby, particularly regarding the interpretation of obstruction laws.
Former Test referee Nigel Owens and Boan Venter lifting up and carrying Cobus Wiese in the air.
Respected former Test referee Nigel Owens believes that a Springboks try should have been ruled out with Scotland awarded a penalty.
South Africa had just gone 7-0 ahead through Embrose Papier’s score and Handre Pollard’s conversion when Scotland’s restart was well collected by Cobus Wiese.
The Boks lock was lifted into the air by Boan Venter but, instead of immediately putting him down, he carried Wiese forwards with him above his shoulders.
Scottish players, given that under World Rugby’s laws, are not allowed to take a player out in the air, or the person supporting them, decided not to engage.
That enabled the Springboks second-row to then get back on the ground and break clear of the visiting defence before off-loading to Paul de Villiers, who took play up to the 22.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in