Loose forwards Rynhardt Elstadt and Henco Venter have both been suspended for a week following their punch-up during the Cheetahs-Stormers clash on Saturday.
With the Cheetahs driving from a lineout in the final minute in Bloemfontein, No 8 Venter struck Elstadt in the face with his elbow, to which the Stormers flank Elstadt retaliated with a punch, using his fist.
Referee Jaco van Heerden, after viewing TV evidence and consulting with TMO Willie Vos, chose to hand red cards to both players.
Elstadt and Venter pleaded guilty under Law 10.4(a), foul play review committee chairman Nigel Hampton QC said in a statement.
So the Stormers will be without Elstadt for next Saturday’s Super Rugby clash against the Sunwolves at Newlands (7.30pm kickoff), while Venter’s suspension extends to July 14 as they have a bye next weekend.
The Cheetahs’ next game is against the Southern Kings in Bloemfontein on Friday, July 14 (7pm kickoff).