A 'Steyn' on Sanzar reputation

02 April 2015 - 03:08 By Khanyiso Tshwaku

Frans Steyn's five-week suspension might have been deserved, but it still raises questions about whether Sanzar dispenses justice equally across the southern hemisphere. Steyn spear-tackled Chiefs flyhalf Aaron Cruden in a scrappy excuse of a Super rugby match two weeks ago.While the Sharks inside centre was involved in a negligent but dangerous piece of play, New Zealand players have committed far more malicious acts on the field without punishment.The northern hemisphere has led the way with consistent punitive action for offenders, recently suspending London Wasps No 8 Nathan Hughes for three weeks for kneeing George North's head.Here are a few examples of New Zealand and Australian players who have got away with on-field murder:Hayden Triggs (Blues): The lock punched Stormers captain Duane Vermeulen on February 21 and was sent off.Liam Gill (Reds): The flanker was suspended for two weeks for a wrestling style tackle on Nic White.Gill tackled the scrumhalf intentionally without the ball and had no intention of putting the man down safely.Owen Franks (Crusaders): The All Black prop was cited and suspended for two weeks after striking out at a Highlanders opponent from the wrong side of the maul.While the offence was not as dangerous as Bismarck du Plessis's foot swipe at Michael Leitch's head, it highlighted how lightly New Zealand players are reprimanded...

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.