Damian Willemse Suspended By URC; Stormers Star Could Miss URC Playoffs
Damian Willemse Suspended By URC; Stormers Star Could Miss URC Playoffs
Damian Willemse was suspended for three games following a red card. He could miss the entire United Rugby Championship playoffs for the DHL Stormers
The path to another United Rugby Championship just got tougher for the DHL Stormers.
DHL Stormers fullback Damian Willemse, who had been among the best players in the league during the first half of the season, has been suspended for three matches following a red card issued during his team's URC Round 18 clash against Cardiff Rugby on May 16.
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Willemse, a Springboks star, is the No. 18-ranked player in the world according to FloRugby's updated rankings before the Investec Champions Cup tournament last November.
Referee Gianluca Gnecchi sent Willemse off in the 58th minute for a violation of Law 9.11, which prohibits reckless or dangerous play, including leading with the elbow or forearm or jumping into a tackler. The infraction occurred during a contentious second half at Cardiff Arms Park.
Judicial Officer Jennifer Donovan oversaw the disciplinary process and confirmed that the incident warranted a red card. She deemed the offense to meet the mid-range entry point, which carries a six-week sanction. However, Willemse’s previously clean disciplinary record allowed for 50% mitigation, resulting in a three-game suspension.
Willemse acknowledged the act of foul play and accepted the red card ruling. His ban could be reduced to two matches if he successfully completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme.
The suspension rules Willemse out of the URC quarterfinal between the Stormers and Glasgow Warriors on May 30. The two additional fixtures he will miss depend on how far the Stormers advance in the postseason.
When Will Damian Willemse Return For The Stormers?
If he completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme, he could return by the semifinals on June 7 of the playoffs. The URC Final is June 14.
URC Playoff Matches
Here is the schedule for the URC Playoffs that start on May 30
May 30:
- 2:35 PM: Glasgow Warriors vs. DHL Stormers
May 31:
- 7:30 AM: Vodacom Bulls vs. Edinburgh
- 10 AM: Leinster vs. Scarlets
- 12:30 PM: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs. Munster
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