Deysel could face ban at World Cup

Rugby
  • 9 Months Ago
Namibia’s captain at the Rugby World Cup, Johan Deysel, will appear before an independent judicial committee on Tuesday, having received a red card for a head collision with French captain Antoine Dupont during the second half of France’s 96-0 win in Marseille on Thursday.

Deysel, who captained Namibia during both the 2019 and 2023 tournaments and who is playing in his third World Cup, is expected to miss out on Namibia’s eagerly awaited clash with Uruguay on Wednesday evening.

In a statement, Deysel extended his best wishes to Dupont, who has undergone surgery on a fractured cheekbone and will return to the squad “in a few days”, according to the French Rugby Federation.

Deysel said: “Clearly, I meant no harm. Everything happened very quickly and I couldn’t get my head out of the way quick enough, resulting in a head clash. I know the rules and immediately knew that I was at fault.

“I spoke with coach Fabien Galthié immediately after the match and sent my best wishes and apologies to Antoine both personally and via the France team doctor. He is a great player and person and I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Namibia’s team to face Uruguay is expected to be announced on Monday.