Sharks’ dealt a suspension blow after Springboks’ injuries hamper Challenge Cup final preparations
The Sharks have been dealt another blow ahead of their Challenge Cup final against Gloucester with Murray Koster copping a five-game suspension.
Koster was shown a red card in the latter stages of the Sharks’ 24-25 defeat to Benetton in a Round 16 United Rugby Championship clash in Durban.
The midfielder’s suspension is another blow to the Sharks’ preparations for the final, as the side are dealing with a potential injury crisis.
Murray Koster banned
Koster had come into the starting XV following the late withdrawal of Francois Venter from the matchday squad and the Sharks lost Eben Etzebeth, Vincent Koch and Lukhanyo Am to injuries during the first half.
Referee Mike Adamson red-carded Koster in the 75th minute of the game after a dangerous entry into a ruck.
A URC statement confirmed that he had been banned for five games for contravening Law 9.20 -Dangerous play in a ruck or maul.
Koster accepted that he committed an act of foul play which warranted a red card with judicial officer Simon Thomas deeming that it warranted the top-end suspension entry point of 10 weeks.
However, he received five (50%) weeks mitigation due to his good record, timely admission of guilt and apology which results in a five game suspension.
Completing the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme can reduce Koster’s suspension by one week, but he will still miss the Challenge Cup final.
Meanwhile, Sharks’ defence coach Joey Mongalo revealed that the injured Springboks won’t be featuring against Cardiff and will travel to the UK early.
“We are trying to give those guys as long as possible to get ready,” Mongalo said.
“The medical team is going over and beyond if they can give everybody the best possible opportunity [to be fit and available].”
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