Mon 13 Mar 2023 | 06:10

Shocking Scenes As Rugby Players Attacked Following Rivalry Clash In South Africa

In one of the most shocking scenes to unfold on a rugby pitch. South African police have launched an investigation into events that transpired following Harlequins PE beat Jeffery’s Bay 24 – 22.

As the final whistle blew, spectators stormed the pitch at Pellsrus Sportsground. What transpired were disgusting scenes as Harlequins players were stabbed and attacked with pieces of glass.

In a report on the Port Elizabeth based Algoa FM website, police are now “investigating a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm”.

As reported on Rugby365 and Rugbypass, Spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the injured players received treatment at the scene, she then said; “Thus far only one case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm is opened.”

South African Rugby Union President Mark Alexander further condemned the actions say; The reports we have seen are alarming and we shall be writing to the Eastern Province Rugby Union requesting further information,

“It should go without saying that if the reports are accurate this behaviour is intolerable, and the strongest sanctions should be considered. Rugby is a physical game where players go hammer-and-tongs at each other for 80 minutes, but at the final whistle, we shake hands and have a drink with each other. That is the proud ethos of rugby – this type of behaviour is a disgrace and totally unacceptable.”

Now facing a major backlash, Jeffery’s Bay Rugby Club have been suspended by the Eastern Province Rugby Union. Releasing a statement surrounding the incident, the Union said; “It has come to our attention that a very serious incident occurred after the match involving your club on Saturday, March 11.

“We have come to understand that at the conclusion of the match, scenes of violence erupted causing serious injuries to individuals who had to receive medical attention and even hospitalised.

“In view of this alleged thuggery, the management committee of EPRU, resolved to draft this correspondence informing [you] of the suspension of all your home matches with immediate effect.”