29 Mar 2015

Steyn cleared of foul play

6:28 am on 29 March 2015

The Sharks star Francois Steyn is free to play Super Rugby again after being cleared of dangerous play stemming from his sending-off in last weekend's controversial win over the Chiefs.

The Sharks Francois Steyn.

The Sharks Francois Steyn. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The Springboks centre was red-carded as one of three Sharks who ganged up on the Chiefs All Blacks first five Aaron Cruden in a spear tackle, and Steyn was sent off.

But a judicial committee cleared Steyn and ordered the cancellation of his red card, though SANZAR are appealing that ruling.

The sending-off followed lengthy discussions between Australian referee Angus Gardner one of his assistants - who favoured a red card - and the television match official, who wanted a yellow card.

The Sharks captain Bismarck du Plessis was banned for four games and rival hooker Hika Elliot for one.

The Chiefs won't lose captain Liam Messam, who was cited for choking during the match.

Messam is free to play this weekend after having his offence downgraded by the SANZAR judiciary.

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