Springboks playing with 14 again after early red card against Italy in Turin

By Canadian Press on November 15, 2025.

TURIN, Italy (AP) — South Africa is playing with 14 men against Italy after lock Franco Mostert was red-carded in the 12th minute for an illegal high tackle on Saturday.

As Italy flyhalf Paolo Garbisi was tackled low by Ethan Hooker, Mostert led with his shoulder into Garbisi’s head without using his arms. Mostert was issued a permanent red card by referee James Doleman.

A Springbok lock was also red-carded against France in Paris last weekend. Lood de Jager was sent off just before halftime for a shoulder-to-head tackle on Thomas Ramos with no attempt to wrap.

The Springboks still came from behind with 14 men to beat France 32-17. De Jager received a four-game suspension that ruled him out of the rest of South Africa’s European tour.

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AP rugby: https://apnews.com/hub/rugby

The Associated Press