11 Jul 2010

Botha suspended for nine weeks for head butt

12:41 pm on 11 July 2010

The South African rugby lock Bakkies Botha has been suspended for nine weeks after he was cited for dangerous play during the Tri Nations Series opener against the All Blacks last night.

Botha attended a judicial hearing in Auckland this morning for head butting the All Blacks halfback, Jimmy Cowan, after he was held back by the New Zealander in the opening minute of the Test match.

New Zealand went on to win the Test 32-12.

After reviewing the video evidence and hearing submissions from Botha and his representatives, the offence was deemed to be in the middle range of seriousness, but his record for previous offending was also taken into account.

Botha won't be able to play any rugby until the 5th of September.