South African-born Ospreys Prop Tom Botha Handed Three-Week Ban for Dangerous Tackle
In a recent development in the rugby union world, Ospreys prop Tom Botha, who joined the Welsh side in 2018, has been handed a three-week ban for a dangerous tackle during the European Challenge Cup loss against Gloucester on 12 April.
The incident occurred in the 13th minute of the 23-13 defeat, where Botha was found guilty of an illegal challenge on centre Seb Atkinson. No action was taken during the game, but the 33-year-old was later cited.
The three-person independent panel determined that Botha had “tackled Atkinson in a dangerous and reckless manner” that warranted a red card, and the citing complaint was upheld. Botha initially received a six-week suspension, but that was halved after taking into account his admission of foul play and clear disciplinary record.
“The incident occurred in the 13th minute of the 23-13 defeat, where Botha was found guilty of an illegal challenge on centre Seb Atkinson.”
As a result of the ban, Botha will miss the two United Rugby Championship (URC) games against Stormers and Bulls in South Africa, but he could be available for the trip to face Leinster on 11 May in Dublin.
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